"Le plaisir que nous trouvons à penser à l'avenir ne vient pas d'imaginer atteindre nos objectifs mais de l'espoir secret que nous ne serons plus nous-mêmes une fois arrivés."

So, let's dive into this idea. It's fascinating, really. It's not just about daydreaming of reaching our goals. It's more about that little whisper inside us that says, "Maybe I'll be different, better, somehow transformed when I get there."

Think about it. When you imagine your future, you don't just see the achievements—you see a new version of yourself. Maybe it's you, but more confident, braver, or happier. That’s the core of it. It’s the transformation we’re secretly hoping for, not just the success.

This way of thinking has roots in human nature and psychology. We’re wired to grow, change, and evolve. Historically, this makes sense. Humans have always looked to the future as a way to escape the limitations of the present, dreaming of becoming something greater. This quote taps into that ancient, almost primal desire.

Let's look at a real-life example. Imagine Jane. Jane works a 9-to-5 job she’s not thrilled about, but she dreams of starting her own bakery. It's not just the joy of baking she's after. She pictures herself as a successful business owner—confident, creative, and fulfilled. It’s not merely the bakery she's chasing. It's the new Jane she sees herself becoming.

So, how do you apply this wisdom? First, recognize the true nature of your dreams. Understand that it's not just about the goals themselves but the transformation you seek. Use this insight to focus on personal growth now, rather than waiting for a future moment to change you.

Here's a bit of advice: Start small. Begin cultivating those qualities you hope to have in the future right now. Want to be more confident? Take small steps each day to push your boundaries. See yourself as that future person and act like it.

Now, picture this scenario. You’re at a coffee shop with a friend—let’s call him Mark. Mark is stressing about his career and wishes he could be more decisive and assertive at work. He talks about a promotion he’s eyeing. But as you listen, you realize it's not just the position he wants. He wants the confidence and respect that comes with it.

You tell Mark about this idea. You explain that his real desire is the transformation he sees. You suggest he start by making small decisions with confidence. Maybe it’s as simple as choosing the restaurant for lunch. Each tiny step builds that future Mark he’s dreaming of, right now.

Mark starts to see it. He gets it. He begins to practice being the person he wants to become, today—not waiting for the promotion to "fix" him.

See, that’s the magic. The pleasure in thinking about the future isn't just in the goals. It's in the person we dream of becoming. And the best part? You don't have to wait. Start becoming that person now. The future you is really just a mindset away.