Visualization is a powerful tool that can help you make your goals and dreams a reality.
Using visualization techniques, you can practically jump forward in time and put yourself in the situation or outcome you want to experience. In turn, this can actually help make it happen (we aren’t kidding!).
So, kick back and relax. We’re about to learn all about visualization techniques and everything you need to know to start using them in your life — starting today.
According to the Merriam-Webster Dictionary, visualization is:
“a formation of mental images and the act or process of interpreting in visual terms or of putting into visible form.”
And this truly is what visualization is. It’s all about closing your eyes and imagining what you want to happen, as well as how that would feel.
Related Article: Turn Your Dreams Into Reality: 10 Reasons Why Visualization is a Powerful Tool
You might be thinking, “Okay, great. Yes, I can visualize images in my mind!” But this isn’t the core of visualization techniques.
Research shows that brain imagery helps improve the transmission between neurons in our brains. This means when you visualize something happening, your brain somewhat equates it to real-life action. In turn, this creates a neural pathway.
It’s very similar to if you were to practice the same skill over and over again.
Another way to think about it is that you are training your nervous system for what you want to happen. This means that it’s more likely it will. And it’s why pro athletes imagine themselves winning before stepping foot on the field (and also why it sometimes works!).
For example, a pro baseball player might visualize himself hitting the winning ball. By doing so, he activates the neural circuits involved in this movement. As a result, it’s more likely to happen.
The truth is that this all comes down to practice.
Practicing visualization on a regular basis can make you, well, better at it. So, let’s explore this a little more in-depth.
What can you do to get good at visualization?
If you’re new to visualization meditation and techniques, try these activities out:
There’s actually a ton of guided imagery meditations online. However, you can also do your own. This involves:
Progressive relaxation is wonderful for those with pent-up stress and anxiety.
It can help you let go of tension and completely relax your physical body. In turn, this can translate into relaxing your mind. This practice can also help you get better at becoming more physically in-tune with your body as you create imagery in your mind. Here’s how to do it:
This visualization exercise is all about spreading love to someone you know who might need it (as well as yourself). To do this:
Now we get to the real thing!
You can skip right to this exercise or do the above exercises to practice getting ready for this one. Here’s how you do it:
Related Article: Vision Boards: Why You Should Make One & How To Do It
Creative visualization can help you with that first step of making your dreams a reality.
However, it’s not the only step involved. You also have to take that first physical step toward your goals. Maybe that means joining that class or learning a new skill.
At the same time, visualization can be a powerful way to make your goals come to life. Try it out. Does it work for you?
Read Next: Every Day of the Week Motivations & Inspirations for Your Best Week Yet
Photo by Eli DeFaria on Unsplash
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I really liked his teaching and presentation. The results of my daily practice of others I am writing to teach you. Thank you for everything you have given me.
Thanks you for the support, Solomon! Wishing you luck on your journey 🙂
Thank you for this article. I have currently practicing mindfulness in my daily routine, and found it helps with juggling the busy life we live these days, especially us parents having the stress of our young ones.
Visualisation is one thing I implmented years ago when I was on a health kick to lose weight without even knowing it was a thing. I would visualise myself walking into the gym looking like the way I wanted. Months later, I found myself there.
Our minds have a ridiculous amount of power to our our physical self, and more and more people need to do it for the better of ourselves and others.
Awesome feedback, James. We're so happy this resonated with you! And you are living proof of visualization working, thank you for sharing your success story with us. 🙂
Thank you for educating me about visualization meditation. I’m excited to try all these techniques. Even though I’m an older adult, I hope it helps me to accomplish my goals and aspirations in life.
Thanks Angela! You are never too old to motivate yourself! Wishing you luck on your journey and let us know how it goes!
Very very nice information and very great concepts about visualization skills...👍👍
Thanks Tushar, we're so happy you enjoyed it 🙂
Thank you for advice. Very helpful.
Thank you Vlasta! Take care.
I just found out recently that I have aphantasia which is the inability to visually visualize. 🙂 I can still "picture" something in my mind and describe it to you but I don't "see" it as a picture. I was somewhat disappointed that I had never questioned others about "visualizing" before. My daughter has an amazing visual imagination but my son is like me and does not see things he imagines. Thought I'd share my recent discovery. 🙂
Oh interesting, thank you Robin! I also know someone with aphantasia. Stay tuned for a future article on this - you've inspired us! Take care and thank you for sharing 🙂