Love to Future Me

I read a great essay about a person who made little grab-and-go prep kits for going out with her potty-training child (e.g., clean underwear, wipes, etc.) and she would add a little gift to herself and a note inside each one — “a gift for future you.”

I love this idea of leaving yourself kind things for the future. I often think of this concept as the idea of doing something now that will make life easier later. For instance, preparing ingredients the day before so cooking goes smoothly. Or taking the time to clean up now so future Melissa can enjoy a neat space.

But all of those things require me to work now and rest later, without the promise that I will really benefit later. I mean, I know if I don’t do it, I will definitely have to do it later. So it’s a small kindness.

But this is different. This is not taking on any work right now, but leaving yourself little kind notes or treats for when you know you will most need them.

A love note. To yourself.