As an adult you’ll notice that life is a series of habits. It can feel like a never-ending cycle of work, chores, and errands. When this happens it’s easier to become disheartened and wonder if this is all life has to offer.
That’s why having something exciting planned is important. Just the thought of it can completely change the way you experience your day-to-day lives.
The most obvious example is planning a holiday. But you could also look forward to signing up for a new class or even buying a ticket in a home lottery. It doesn’t matter how small the event is, you have something to look forward to and that makes everything in life feel brighter. Anything becomes possible.
The Science of Anticipation
Psychologists have found that anticipation often brings as much happiness as the event itself.
When you know something positive is coming, your brain releases dopamine. This is the feel-good chemical that fuels motivation and excitement. That’s why booking a trip months in advance can lift your mood long before you pack your bags.
The anticipation of an event helps us stay motivated, especially during stressful or monotonous times. It reminds us that there’s always something to work toward, no matter how small.
Motivation Through Milestones
Looking forward to something suddenly gives purpose to your days, even if that purpose is just counting them off.
A great example is signing up for a marathon or fun run. You’ll feel excitement, mixed with fear.
It will inspire you to train harder, or perhaps even train when you usually wouldn’t.
Equally, saving money is boring. But, saving for something specific is motivational. Setting milestones, regardless of their size is essential as it helps you believe that you can reach your goal. It also inspire you to track your progress, giving your life new meaning.
Everyday Things to Look Forward To
Not every source of excitement needs to be life-changing. Sometimes, it’s the smallest things that can make life feel better. For example:
- Planning a coffee date with a friend
- Saving a favourite book or TV show for the end of the week
- Cooking a special meal on a Friday night
- Starting a creative project and setting mini goals to help you achieve it
Adding these small goals to your everyday life, will help you feel positive all the time.
How Looking Ahead Builds Resilience
Life can be very challenging, unexpected breakdowns, vets bills, job losses, inflation, and so on. Having something to look forward to makes it easier to cope with the tough times.
It provides a mental anchor; a reminder that better moments are ahead.
This mindset can help reduce stress, improve emotional balance, and even strengthen relationships. Shared goals and plans often bring people closer together.
Creating a Cycle of Joy
By creating future events and putting excitement into your life, you’re improving your quality of life. Every plan no matter how small adds a sense of purpose and optimism.
You should always have something to look forward to, it will help you stay motivated and encourage you to create more future events.
It can be a simple weekly tradition or something bigger you’ve been dreaming about for years, It doesn’t matter, having something to look forward to is one of the easiest ways to add more joy and meaning to your everyday life.