Activity 1.2.6 The Stream of Life

Purpose

To map progress towards a future goal

Materials

Magazine pictures, coloured markers, scissors, tape or glue, poster board

Time

2–3 hrs

Method

1. Ask participants to draw a stream of water on their poster board, showing the smallest point of the stream flowing to the widest point. They can also colour and draw around the stream to give it more appeal, e.g., trees, flowers, etc. Example of stream drawing:
   
2. Have participants select pictures from magazines that represent an ideal future.
3. Participants can now tape or glue their pictures, and/or draw whatever represents their ideal future in the largest area of the stream.
4. Next, have participants select pictures that represent the present time. The smallest area of the stream represents the present time and pictures can be taped here.
5. Instruct participants to now select pictures that show progress towards their ideal future. The middle area of the stream is the progress area.
6. Questions to discuss:
   • How difficult was it to focus more on the future than the present?
   • What were some things that would help to progress to their ideal goal?
   • What are some adjectives that describe the future goal? Do these words match their personal values?
7. Have participants sign their posters and put them on display where they can be seen every day. They can act as a reminder of their goal.