Sixth-grade boys recorded messages for their future selves. Seven years later, they listened.
In a heartwarming project inspired by the movie 'Boyhood,' sixth-grade students at McCallie School in Chattanooga, Tennessee, recorded messages to their future selves, only to revisit these messages seven years later. This initiative offered a unique time capsule, capturing the youthful curiosity and aspirations of the boys. As they watched their younger selves pose questions about favorite movies, hobbies, and life lessons, the now young adults responded with a blend of nostalgia and self-awareness. The earnestness of these interactions is palpable, especially in moments where they reflect on personal growth and the timeless advice to 'be kind to everyone.'
What makes this project particularly poignant is the organic nature of the boys' reactions, as they confront their past selves with a mixture of humor, sincerity, and introspection. Brandan Roberts, the director of video at McCallie School, facilitated this project with minimal intervention, allowing the students' genuine emotions and reflections to shine through. This exercise not only provided a glimpse into the boys' personal development but also underscored the enduring power of self-reflection and kindness as guiding principles throughout life.
Constructive analysis
The constructive-journalism lens: not just what happened, but what works.
- The problem
- The challenge of fostering self-awareness and personal growth in young students.
- The actions
- McCallie School had sixth-grade boys record messages for their future selves to encourage introspection and personal development.
- Evidence of progress
- The boys’ reactions to their younger selves, filled with sincerity and reflection, demonstrate personal growth and the lasting impact of the project.
- What we can learn
- Schools and organizations can replicate this by creating similar time-capsule projects to promote self-reflection and emotional development in students.
PERMA wellbeing profile of this story
Seligman's five pillars of wellbeing, as expressed in this story.
- Positive Emotion
- 8
- Engagement
- 9
- Relationships
- 7
- Meaning
- 8
- Accomplishment
- 7
Character strengths in play
Top VIA strengths this story embodies.
Curiosity
The younger versions are energetic and eager as they ask burning questions of who they will become in seven years.
Kindness
Canon is asked this question, he answers, 'Always be kind to others and always love others. Just treat your neighbors as you would yourself.'
Perspective
Older Will answers: 'Try your hardest, no matter what. You’ll feel bad if you didn’t do it.'
Try this today
Try recording a short message to your future self. Reflect on your current interests, dreams, and values. Set a reminder to watch it in a few years, and observe how your perspectives have evolved.