MINDSETMonths to result

Protopian Thinking

Imagine a better tomorrow

Problem it solves

limiting beliefs

Best for

Individuals and organizations seeking to create a better future

Not ideal for

Those who are not willing to challenge their assumptions about the future

Overview

Why this framework exists

Protopian thinking involves imagining a better tomorrow, not a perfect one, but one where significant progress has been made. This framework encourages individuals to think critically about the future and to create stories about what it could look like. By doing so, we can create a sense of direction and purpose, and work towards creating a better world for all. Protopian thinking is not about creating a utopia, but about making progress towards a better future. It's about creating a world that is more just, equitable, and sustainable. This framework is essential for individuals and organizations who want to create a positive impact on the world.

Core principles

3 total
  1. Imagine a better tomorrow, not a perfect one.
  2. Create stories about what the future could look like.
  3. Work towards creating a better world for all.

Steps

3 steps
  1. Imagine a Better Tomorrow
    Take time to think about what a better tomorrow could look like. What are your hopes and dreams for the future? What kind of world do you want to create?
    Pro tipUse journaling or other creative practices to help you imagine a better tomorrow.
    WarningBe careful not to get caught up in negative thinking or dystopian scenarios.
  2. Create Stories About the Future
    Create stories about what the future could look like. What are the possibilities and opportunities that exist? What are the challenges and obstacles that need to be overcome?
    Pro tipUse storytelling techniques to bring your vision of the future to life.
    WarningBe careful not to get too caught up in fantasy or unrealistic scenarios.
  3. Work Towards Creating a Better World
    Take action to create a better world for all. What steps can you take today to move closer to your vision of the future?
    Pro tipStart small and focus on making progress, not perfection.
    WarningBe careful not to get discouraged by setbacks or obstacles.

Checklist

Saved in your browser

Examples

2 cases
The Huberman Lab Podcast

The Huberman Lab podcast is an example of protopian thinking in action. The podcast focuses on creating a better future through science-based protocols and protopian thinking.

OutcomeThe podcast has inspired thousands of people to think critically about the future and to take action to create a better world.
The Protopia Movement

The protopia movement is a growing community of individuals and organizations who are working towards creating a better future. The movement is based on the principles of protopian thinking and is focused on creating a more just, equitable, and sustainable world.

OutcomeThe protopia movement has inspired thousands of people to take action and to work towards creating a better future.

Common mistakes

3 traps
Getting Caught Up in Negative Thinking
It's easy to get caught up in negative thinking or dystopian scenarios, but this can be a major obstacle to creating a better future.
Focusing Too Much on Perfection
Focusing too much on perfection can be a major obstacle to creating a better future. Instead, focus on making progress and taking small steps towards your vision.
Not Taking Action
Not taking action is a major obstacle to creating a better future. It's essential to take small steps towards your vision and to make progress, even if it's just a little bit at a time.

Origin story

How this framework came to be

The concept of protopia was first introduced by Kevin Kelly, who argued that we need to imagine a better tomorrow, not a perfect one. This idea has been built upon by Ari Wallach, who has developed a framework for protopian thinking. The framework is based on the idea that we need to create stories about what the future could look like, and to work towards creating a better world for all.

Source

Traced to primary
Source · PODCAST
Create Your Ideal Future Using Science-Based Protocols | Ari Wallach
Andrew Huberman · 2024
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