There are so many reasons why looking ahead can feel too abstract, too daunting, and too uncertain. So, instead of trying to think about it all at once, let yourself think for a moment of a new memory you’d like to create.
The idea of a “memory” can have a lot of strong emotions attached to it.
For instance, you might have memories associated with people you are no longer around to or close to anymore. There could be grief there and at times this can also make it hard to imagine — what will new memories look like?
So give yourself permission to create space to explore what new memories might look like. What new things have you not been able to do? What things might you like to try alone, and what other things are focused on other people joining in?
Make a list. Look up pictures and make a mood board. Ask a friend: “What kind of new memories would you like to make?”
It is not selfish to try this, for the language and images that you end up finding can become points of inspiration and even templates for others to join in on, too.
This doesn’t have to be the only thing you do when looking ahead, but it can be one of many. Find a space (even if it’s just one page in a journal or one mood board) where you can explore the possibilities of new memories.
