Do you ever visualize your goals? Do you take the time to see yourself having achieved something that you really wish you did? You might say that this is some mumbo jumbo, but don’t people always say ‘I will believe it when I see it?’ Well, seeing is a way of believing. Visualization works because our minds do not make the difference between something that we vividly imagine or something that we actually experience. Below I selected some excerpts from an article on Visualization, published in The Huffington Post. Use Visualization to your advantage and get to your goals quicker!
Why Visualization Works
According to research using brain imagery, visualization works because neurons in our brains, those electrically excitable cells that transmit information, interpret imagery as equivalent to a real-life action. When we visualize an act, the brain generates an impulse that tells our neurons to “perform” the movement. This creates a new neural pathway — clusters of cells in our brain that work together to create memories or learned behaviors — that primes our body to act in a way consistent to what we imagined. All of this occurs without actually performing the physical activity, yet it achieves a similar result.
How It Works…
There are two types of visualization, each of which serves a distinct purpose, but for greatest effect, they should be used together. The first method is outcome visualization and involves envisioning yourself achieving your goal. To do this, create a detailed mental image of the desired outcome using all of your senses.
Some people find it useful to write their goal down, and then, in as much detail as possible, translate it into a visual representation. It could be a hand-drawn picture, a photograph or a diagram. The media doesn’t matter, just as long as it helps you create a vivid mental image and stay motivated.
The second type of visualization is process visualization. It involves envisioning each of the actions necessary to achieve the outcome you want. Focus on completing each of the steps you need to achieve your goal, but not on the overall goal itself.
Important To Remember!
Visualization does not guarantee success. It also does not replace hard work and practice. But when combined with diligent effort (and, I would add, a strong support network), it is a powerful way to achieve positive, behavioral change and create the life you desire.
Source: https://www.huffpost.com/entry/visualization-goals_b_878424
Daniel C Coaching 