Envisioning Two Futures
Comparing the Impact of Continued Use vs. Recovery Across Life Areas
Envisioning Two Futures
Comparing the Impact of Continued Use vs. Recovery Across Life Areas
Envisioning Two Futures
Comparing the Impact of Continued Use vs. Recovery Across Life Areas
Motivational interviewing research shows that when people clearly see the gap between their current behavior and their goals, their motivation to change increases (Miller & Rollnick, 2023). This exercise invites you to honestly examine how substance use is affecting, and will continue to affect, the areas of life that matter most to you. By comparing two possible futures side by side, you can clarify what is at stake and what you stand to gain.
For each life area below, write how you believe things will look if you continue using substances in the left column, and how they will look if you pursue recovery in the right column. Be as specific and honest as possible.
| Life Area | If I Continue Using | If I Pursue Recovery |
|---|---|---|
References
- Miller, W. R., & Rollnick, S. (2023). Motivational interviewing: Helping people change and grow (4th ed.). Guilford Press.
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Common Questions
What is the Envisioning Two Futures worksheet?
Motivational interviewing research shows that when people clearly see the gap between their current behavior and their goals, their motivation to change increases (Miller & Rollnick, 2023).
How do I use the Envisioning Two Futures worksheet?
Fill out this worksheet digitally or print it for use in session. You can save your progress with a Pro account. Take your time with each column — there are no right or wrong answers.
Is the Envisioning Two Futures worksheet free?
Yes. Like every worksheet on Therapy Resource, it is free to read, print, and download as a PDF, no account required. A Pro subscription adds online filling with saved progress, practice-branded PDF exports, and secure client sharing.
Can I fill out the Envisioning Two Futures worksheet online?
Yes. Switch the worksheet to "Type on Screen" mode to fill in the fields directly in your browser before printing. Pro members can also save their entries across sessions and export the completed worksheet as a branded PDF.
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