Visualization.
It's a word that comes up in every self-care or self-help blog. People swear by it, claiming that the power of visualization has led to financial abundance, love, a better job, better health, and an improved life.
It's a power that we all have within us, that simply needs to be used effectively to achieve the life of your dreams. If you've ever seen the documentary "The Secret," you'll be familiar with this topic. Spoiler alert: the secret is visualization.
Sound like a bunch of new age mumbo-jumbo to you? Here's a story:Former NBA star Jerry West was known for his ability to make a big play in a tight situation, earning him the nickname “Mr. Clutch.” When asked how he was able to make such essential shots, he explained that he had rehearsed making those same shots countless times in his mind.
Still not convinced?
So what exactly is visualization?
Visualization is a technique in which you create images of what you want or any goal that you have - whether it's that job you have your eye on, or that trip to Italy you've always dreamt of.
The idea here is that whatever you can imagine and see in your mind's eye is achievable if you take action on a plan to get to where you want to be.
All I have to do is imagine it and it'll come true?
But how does it work?
Types of Visualization exercises
1. Create a vision board.
2. The Mental Rehearsal Technique
3. Create goal pictures
This is a little different than creating a vision board. When you create a goal picture, you recreate a photo of you actually achieving your goal. Say you want a new Chanel bag - head on over to the Chanel store and take a photo of yourself holding a bag. Want to make more money? Take a photo of your bank statement and Photoshop in a few more zeros. Want a puppy? Find a photo of your dream pooch and paste it next to a photo of yourself.
4. Index cards
Take a few index cards and write one goal on each card. Every night, take your stack of dreams and go through each one, mentally picturing each successful goal for about 15 seconds.
5. Daily affirmations
This is a positive statement you repeat to yourself every day, which floods your brain, signalling it to do whatever possible to make that goal a reality. An affirmation starts with "I am..." and finishes with you completing your goal or dream. For example, "I am enjoying financial health" or "I am enjoying the Eiffel Tower's beauty" or even simply "I am beautiful."
The power of visualization is truly transformative but remember, it's not magic and it won't happen overnight. You do need to commit time, focus, and consistent energy to achieve your goals, but if you do so, it will happen.
Do you practice visualization regularly? We'd love to hear how visualization has changed your life in the comments below.