Narrating the Self in the Past and the Future: Implications for Maturity

Abstract

In this article, we review research on narrative possible selves as correlates and predictors of well-being and ego development in individuals who have experienced important life transitions. This research has shown that positive well-being is best predicted by investment in current life goals and a divestment of interest in "lost goals." In contrast, ego development is correlated with the capacity to elaborate on one's lost possible selves. In addition, this capacity to elaborate on lost goals predicts enhanced development over time. Based on our findings, we propose a general model of goal processes in personality development, suggesting that the outcome of maturity is best captured by a convergence of happiness and ego development.