Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

“In 10 years, I see myself growing the best version of who I am today—chasing dreams, building connections, and making a difference, wherever life takes me.”

Where Do You See Yourself in 10 Years?

It’s one of those questions that feels like it’s been around forever, right? Whether it’s a job interview, a college application essay, or just a late-night chat with friends, “Where do you see yourself in 10 years?” has a way of stopping you in your tracks. It’s deceptively simple, but when you really start to unpack it, it’s a question that forces you to confront your dreams, fears, and the messy reality of life’s unpredictability. Today, I’m diving into this question head-on—not just to answer it for myself, but to explore what it means to envision your future in a world that’s changing faster than ever.

As I write this in April 2025, the world feels like it’s at a crossroads. Technology is advancing at breakneck speed, climate challenges are reshaping how we live, and the way we work and connect is evolving in ways we couldn’t have imagined a decade ago. So, where do I see myself in 2035? And more importantly, how can we all approach this question in a way that feels meaningful and grounded, without getting lost in clichés or unrealistic fantasies? Let’s break it down.

The Power of the Question

First, let’s talk about why this question matters. At its core, it’s not just about predicting the future—it’s about understanding who you are now. Your answer reveals your priorities, your values, and the things you’re willing to work for. When I was younger, my response to this question was all about ambition: “I’ll be running my own company!” or “I’ll be living in a big city, traveling the world!” Those answers weren’t wrong—they were just snapshots of what I thought success looked like at the time.

Now, with a bit more life experience under my belt, I see the question differently. It’s less about pinpointing an exact destination and more about imagining the kind of person I want to become. Do I want to be kinder? More resilient? More connected to my community? These are the threads that weave through any vision of the future, whether it’s about career, family, or personal growth.

A Decade in Context: 2025 to 2035

To answer “Where do you see yourself in 10 years?” in 2025, it helps to think about what the world might look like in 2035. The last decade has taught us that change is the only constant. In 2015, smartphones were already a big deal, but we hadn’t yet seen the full rise of remote work, AI-driven tools, or the global push for sustainability. Fast-forward to today, and we’re grappling with questions about artificial intelligence, hybrid work cultures, and how to balance progress with the planet’s limits.

By 2035, I expect technology to be even more integrated into our lives. AI assistants might not just help with scheduling—they could be designing personalized health plans or guiding us through learning new skills. Climate adaptation will likely shape where we live and how we work, with more emphasis on resilient cities and renewable energy. And the gig economy? It might evolve into something entirely new, with flexible careers that blend creativity, tech, and human connection.

This backdrop matters because our personal futures don’t exist in a vacuum. Where I see myself in 10 years isn’t just about me—it’s about how I’ll navigate a world that’s shifting under my feet. So, let’s get personal. Here’s how I’m thinking about my own journey across a few key areas: career, relationships, personal growth, and impact.

Career: Building a Path, Not a Destination

If you’d asked me 10 years ago where I’d be career-wise, I probably would’ve said something vague like “successful.” But what does that even mean? A corner office? A fat paycheck? Today, I’m more interested in work that feels meaningful and adaptable. In 2035, I see myself in a role where I’m creating—maybe writing, maybe building a small business, maybe mentoring others. The specifics are less important than the feeling: I want to wake up excited about what I’m contributing to the world.

The job market in 2035 will likely reward flexibility and lifelong learning. Automation and AI are already reshaping industries, so I’m betting that staying curious and open to new skills will be key. Maybe I’ll take a course in sustainable design or dive into data storytelling—who knows? The point is, I don’t see my career as a straight line. It’s more like a river, winding through unexpected turns but always moving forward.

For anyone reading this, here’s a tip: don’t lock yourself into one vision of “success.” Instead, think about the skills you want to develop and the problems you want to solve. That way, you’re not tied to a single outcome—you’re ready for whatever the future throws at you.

Relationships: The Heart of the Future

If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that no amount of career success or personal achievement feels complete without strong relationships. In 10 years, I want to be surrounded by people who challenge me, support me, and make me laugh. That might mean a partner, close friends, or a family of my own—whatever shape it takes, I want those connections to be deep and intentional.

By 2035, I imagine nurturing relationships that have weathered life’s ups and downs. Maybe I’ll be hosting weekly dinners with friends or traveling to visit family across the globe. Technology will probably make staying connected easier, with virtual reality hangouts or instant translation breaking down language barriers. But I also want to prioritize the analog moments—shared meals, long walks, the kind of conversations that don’t need a screen.

Here’s something to consider: relationships take work, just like careers do. In a decade, the people you invest in now will be the ones who shape your life. So, who do you want by your side? And what can you do today to strengthen those bonds?

Personal Growth: Becoming Your Best Self

This is where the question gets really juicy. Where do I see myself in 10 years as a person? I hope I’m wiser, for one—though I’m sure I’ll still have plenty of moments where I feel like I’m figuring it all out. I want to be someone who listens better, who stays curious, and who isn’t afraid to admit when I’m wrong.

In 2035, I picture myself having tackled some of my current insecurities. Maybe I’ll finally feel confident speaking in front of a crowd or have mastered the art of saying “no” without guilt. I also want to keep growing emotionally—learning how to handle stress with grace, practicing gratitude, and staying open to new perspectives.

One thing I’m certain of: growth doesn’t happen by accident. It’s the result of small, deliberate choices. Maybe I’ll commit to journaling every day or try meditation again (and actually stick with it this time). Whatever it is, I want to look back in 2035 and feel proud of the work I’ve put into becoming my best self.

Impact: Leaving a Mark on the World

Finally, I can’t think about my future without considering the bigger picture. In 10 years, I want to have made a difference, even if it’s small. Maybe that means volunteering in my community, advocating for a cause I care about, or simply being a positive influence on the people around me. The world in 2035 will need problem-solvers, and I want to be part of the solution.

Climate change is a big one on my mind. By 2035, I hope I’m living more sustainably—maybe growing my own food or supporting local businesses that prioritize the planet. I also want to use my voice to amplify ideas that matter, whether that’s through writing, speaking, or just having tough conversations with friends.

Here’s a challenge for you: think about one issue you care about deeply. How could you contribute to it over the next decade? It doesn’t have to be world-changing—it just has to matter to you.

Embracing the Unknown

Now, here’s the kicker: no matter how carefully I plan, life in 2035 will probably look different than I expect. Ten years ago, I couldn’t have predicted half the things that define my life today—new passions, unexpected friendships, even the city I call home. And that’s okay. The beauty of this question isn’t in getting the answer “right.” It’s in giving yourself permission to dream, to adapt, and to embrace the unknown.

If I had to sum up where I see myself in 10 years, I’d say this: I want to be living with purpose, surrounded by people I love, and making a small but meaningful dent in the universe. The details? Those will fill themselves in along the way.

Your Turn: What’s Your Vision?

So, where do you see yourself in 10 years? Grab a notebook, a coffee, and give yourself a few minutes to think about it. Don’t worry about having all the answers—just start with what feels true today. Maybe you see yourself starting a family, launching a passion project, or exploring a new corner of the world. Whatever it is, let it be a reflection of who you are and who you’re becoming.

The future isn’t something that just happens to us—it’s something we shape, one choice at a time. So here’s to the next decade: may it be messy, beautiful, and full of surprises. Where will you be in 2035? I can’t wait to find out.