Ten minutes with the future you or ten minutes with the tiny you. One could give you advice and spoilers. The other would remind you who you used to be, and probably ask a lot of funny questions. It is a great question for journaling or class discussions.
The case for “Meet your future self for 10 minutes”
- You could ask if everything turns out okay.
- Future you could share one helpful tip.
- You would see who you are going to become.
The case for “Meet your 5-year-old self for 10 minutes”
- Little you would be adorable and full of big dreams.
- You could tell them it is all going to be fine.
- It would remind you what you loved before you grew up.
Who picks which side
Planners and people who worry about the future often want to meet their future self. Nostalgic people, and anyone who misses childhood, often choose their 5-year-old self. Teachers love this question for reflection, because it gets students thinking about who they were and who they want to become.
Our take
Meeting your 5-year-old self is our surprise favorite. Future you might give spoilers you do not want. Tiny you would remind you what you used to dream about, and that is a gift.
Keep the debate going
Follow-up: what is the first thing you would say to each version of yourself?
Make it harder
- Your future self can only answer yes or no.
- Your younger self can not understand what you say.
- You get only one minute with either.
In one line: Advice from ahead or a reminder from behind. Find more like it in our teens would you rather questions.
Frequently asked questions
What would you ask your future self?
Common questions include what job you have, where you live and whether you are happy. Many people say they would ask for one piece of advice instead of spoilers.
What would you tell your younger self?
Most people say something kind, like it is going to be okay, or a funny warning about a haircut. It is a lovely way to talk about growing up.
