Lecture Notes: Future Authoring Program and Life Philosophy

Introduction to the Future Authoring Program

• 90 minutes of participation before college can reduce dropout rates by 50%.
• Effective for those most likely to drop out by helping them develop a vision and plan.
• Good performers often have a vision, while bad performers lack direction.

Importance of Having a Plan

• Lack of a clear reason leads to inaction because resistance is easier than effort.
• Overcoming obstacles requires a strong rationale for pursuing difficult paths like college.

Vision and Consciousness

• The program helps develop a vision through exercises.
• Biblical inspiration: "Ask and you'll receive, seek and you'll find."
• Vision shapes interaction with the world, which is full of potential rather than deterministic.

Exercises in the Program

• Imagine treating yourself well and what you would want in five years if you did.
• Consider the challenges life presents and what would make enduring them worthwhile.

Domains of Meaning

• Intimate relationships, friendships, family, career, education, health, and community involvement are key.
• Lack of these leads to meaninglessness.
• Therapy focuses on developing these areas to enhance life quality.

Developing a Vision

• Aim at a target to avoid sin (missing the mark).
• Detail what a desirable future looks like in specific areas of life.

Overcoming Negative Emotions

• Address fears, anger, and guilt by recognizing potential pitfalls and weaknesses.
• Reflect on the worst-case scenarios to motivate positive change.

Real-Life Applications

• Personal stories of overcoming temptation (e.g., alcohol) for better things, like writing.
• Importance of having constructive goals to dissuade negative behaviors.

Practical Advice for Improvement

• Small steps can build momentum (e.g., moving from social anxiety to public speaking).
• Practicing virtues and making deliberate choices contribute to character development.

Role Models and Heroes

• Admire and emulate people who possess desirable traits.
• Pop culture can play a role in providing role models where personal examples might be lacking.

Conclusion: Living Fully

• Life is suffering, but living fully can combat fear of death.
• Aim for character development and finding purpose in serving others for a meaningful life.