Change Future

Purpose of the Technique:

**Change Future** is a format used to change the mental representation of an event imagined in an uncertain future. A collapsing anchor is applied on the timeline, combining the imagined uncertain event with a visualization of successful resolution.
This technique is particularly useful for building resources in anticipation of upcoming events that are perceived as stressful or unsettling ("Just thinking about it makes me nervous…")—but where a positive outcome is realistically possible.

Standard Steps:

1. Define the timeline
2. Define the future event
3. Experience the positive state
4. Look back (Reflection)
5. Return to the present with the positive state
6. Run the timeline with the resource
7. Repeat steps
8. Test and Future Pace

Detailed Description:

1. Define the Timeline:

Mark the timeline using three anchors:

• Present (P)
• Future Event (FE)
• Point in time after the positive outcome (S for Success)

2. Define the Future Event:

It's essential to determine whether a positive outcome is realistically imaginable.
Stand beside the timeline and look at the future event (FE).
Is a successful outcome conceivable?
– If not, additional resource work or a different format is needed first.
– If yes, proceed:

3. Experience the Positive State:

Step past the event on the timeline to the point where it has already gone well.
Stand on the point after the positive outcome (S), facing back toward the present. Fully experience the success.
Identify and feel the resources in this moment: “What helped you?” “Which skills did you use?”

4. Look Back (Reflection):

From point S, reflect on the resources that helped you succeed:
– What internal and external resources helped at the time?
– What additional resources could support you next time?

5. Return to the Present with the Positive State:

Take the positive emotional state and move (in meta position, beside the timeline) back to the Present (P).
Experience these resources in the here and now. Step beside the timeline, return to “P”, face forward into the future, and feel the resources in the present.

6. Run the Timeline with the Resource:

Now step onto the timeline and walk into the future with the resource state, until you reach the future event (FE).
Enjoy the successful outcome.
At the point after the event (S), check if any additional resources have emerged.

7. Repeat the Steps:

Repeat steps 3 to 6 several times until a strong positive physiology is reached (ideally 10 out of 10).
Integrate the resource fully into the present state.

8. Test and Future Pace:

Conduct a test and future pace to ensure the change has taken hold.