What happens if you DON’T use Visualization?
It has some very specific impacts for entrepreneurs and creators.
There is very tangible neuroscience around this tool.
And it could even be argued that NOT using it sets us in a detrimental position behind those who DO.
Let’s take it apart a little, and explain how and why it’s so vital to success.
Particularly for entrepreneurs and creatives!
#1 — Visualization becomes MEMORY.
Our brains actually record Visualizations in a similar way to memories.
The same neurotransmitters fire, the same neural patterns are laid down.
In other words, your brain thinks it’s really happened.
The more “alive” and “vibrant” that visualization is, the more this is true.
That’s why your favorite NLP coach always recommends incorporating all the sensory details into your visualization – sight, sound, scent, etc.
Be sure to also include the EMOTION that is part of the experience of what you are visualizing (how you feel upon achieving that goal, etc).
When you are detailed and specific, it brings the visualization to life, and the “memory” tracks being laid down have more neural pathways to record.
And neurons that fire together wire together.
So the elements you include, such as a specific scent, can be used to reactivate that memory for you.
By recording the desired future experience as a memory, you’ve created one of the most powerful pre-cursors of having something happen…
That it’s already happened.
#2 — It must be PLAUSIBLE to your conscious mind.
We can’t completely fool the conscious mind.
By selecting a believable outcome, even if it’s a slight stretch, you help to ensure the viability of the Visualization.
Reach for something that feels attainable and believable, but isn’t necessarily a guaranteed outcome.
So go for the “slight stretch” rather than doubling your income.
Go for partial project completion, and work in increments.
Go for writing a chapter versus the whole book.
It’s completely fine to ALSO visualize the “big goal” or outcome.
Just keep in mind you are attempting to record a memory.
So your brain is more likely to “buy it” and actually store it as a memory if it feels plausible this might’ve happened.
When we have a memory something has happened, we tend to believe it can happen again.
Having that memory of that little min-goal occurring makes us more likely to experience it again – this time IRL!
Play with different versions and levels of the goal until you hit flow.
#3 — We are naturally geared towards negative memories – it’s just neuroscience.
When we ignore our own neuroscience we set ourselves up for the opposite of success.
For survival reasons, our brains are wired to recall unpleasant memories and situations.
It’s a mechanism of survival instinct.
If we remember that last time we touched the stove, we were burnt and that HURT, we are less likely to do it again.
Our brain’s tendency towards this trait is to HELP us survive…
BUT it can make it more difficult to create success and comfort with NEW stimuli.
Visualization is one way to hack this.
By crafting visualized “memories” of achieving a new thing, we implant that positive memory…
…which may enhance confidence and overcome fear.
It’s easy to see why Visualization is a potent tool that if overlooked, may actually set us backwards!
So now, how can you put this into practice?
- Do you set aside 10-15 minutes here and there to visualize an outcome?
- Do you incorporate sensory details into your Visualization work?
- Do you include the emotional response / how you want to FEEL?
See what you can come up with to customize this tip for YOU!
Have FUN and get crafty with it!
xx
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