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Michael Phelps is one of the most successful and decorated swimmers in history. An Olympic gold-medalist, Phelps has broken several records. But did you know that Phelps had a difficult time managing his focus when he was younger? He was unable to concentrate, which used to significantly slow down his swimming pace. Phelps’s long-term coach helped him stay focused by encouraging him to embrace visualization techniques. He would visualize himself swimming faster and that eventually reflected in his performance.
It is indeed true. A simple act of imagining yourself achieving certain goals can take you places. Want to know what is visualization and how it works? Read on!
What Is Visualization?
In a nutshell, visualization is a mental rehearsal, where we create mental images or maps to achieve objectives or goals. Visualization is an everyday activity, often used as a method of communicating abstract or concrete ideas. We visualize certain outcomes repeatedly because it reminds us of the things we want to achieve. It builds confidence and motivates us to pursue our dreams.
We use visualization techniques to make sense of information. For example, we often make shopping lists before we make a trip to the store. In a way, visualization helps create mental imagery that prompts positive outcomes. Some people (especially artists) use creative visualization techniques to imagine sounds, tastes or smells. The power of visualization is vast, and when used effectively, it can help you solve problems and make decisions with greater efficiency.
Benefits Of Visualization
The true power of visualization is rooted in self-improvement. When you dig deeper, you identify your true potential, strengths and weaknesses. Creative visualization helps you tap into your mental map and access your creative power.
Here are a few benefits of visualization that’ll encourage you to practice visualization more effectively.
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Sparks Inspiration
The more you visualize, the more inspired you will be to take action. When you envision your future, you’ll imagine ways to achieve your goals. Visualizing can help you build momentum.
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Gets Rid Of Stress
Uncertainty often leads to anxiety and increased stress levels. Visualizing all possibilities will help you stay prepared for any unforeseen circumstances. Navigating risks or any other potential threats will then become easier.
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Optimizes Your Performance
Visualization encourages you to prioritize your objectives according to their urgency and importance. When you’re sure about what you want to achieve, you’re motivated to use your time and resources efficiently.
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Provides Clarity And Direction
Creative visualization provides clarity to thoughts and intention. For example, if you want to work towards the upliftment of society, you would apply for a job in the social development sector because you’ve visualized your goals in advance.
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Brings Meaning To Your Journey
When you visualize, you open yourself to all possibilities. You find meaning in what you pursue because you have imagined yourself embracing those changes or challenges. You become more aware of your needs and work toward fulfilling your purpose.
Techniques For Visualization
Visualization isn’t as difficult as it sounds. Even the smallest changes can bring about much-needed improvements. Let’s look at a few effective techniques for visualization and positive thinking:
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Avoid An All-Or-Nothing Mentality
To err is human and we’re bound to make mistakes. We can’t expect to do everything perfectly every time. Try to learn from your mistakes and focus on how you’re going to bounce back if things go haywire.
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Focus On The Positives
When you focus on positive things, your perspective is bound to change. For example, ‘I will try’ is better than saying ‘I can’t’. Try to celebrate simple achievements such as waking up on time or cutting down on caffeine.
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Minimize Distractions
To learn how to visualize clearly, you can’t let distractions divert you from your objectives. Efficient time management and prioritizing tasks can help stay focused and productive.
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Have A Vision Board
A good way to dedicate yourself to your objectives is to create a vision board. Include pictures or powerful quotations that motivate you towards working harder. It’s an effective tool for personal development.
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Create A Mission Statement
You may have seen organizations create mission statements that help them drive their goals. Similarly, having a personal mission statement will help you envision your goals with greater clarity and pursue them with enthusiasm.
Visualization is instrumental to defining and achieving success on your own terms. Harappa Education’s online innovation and design thinking course Unleashing Creativity will teach you how to identify your true potential and find out-of-the-box solutions. The Disney Creative Tool, in particular, will help you brainstorm ideas and create effective plans. Turn your dreams into reality by embracing the power of visualization!
Explore topics & skills such as Design Thinking, the Design Thinking Process, Examples of Design Thinking & How To Visualize on the Harappa blog and learn to think out-of-the-box.
