Visualize It

Hi readers, welcome back to another training session. Today’s post will primarily be focused on visualization and mental imagery. Mental imagery, also known as mental visualization, is the ability to create images in our mind's eye without the presence of external stimuli. It's a powerful tool that allows us to represent and manipulate objects and events in our minds, and it plays a crucial role in many aspects of our mental life.

One of the most fascinating aspects of mental imagery is how effortlessly it comes to us. We can easily conjure up images of people, places, and things without any conscious effort, and we can manipulate those images in a way that feels almost like interacting with the real world. This ability is so natural and ubiquitous that it's easy to take it for granted, but it's actually a complex cognitive process that involves many different parts of the brain. As easy as it is to come up with an image in our mind's eye, it is somewhat difficult to stay focused on that same image for a period of time.

Mental imagery and visualization can be powerful because it essentially gives you the opportunity to do something before you actually do it. As an athlete myself, I often find myself visualizing myself partaking in the activity I am about to do whether it be running or lifting. It’s gotten to the point where I even visualize myself giving speeches or teachings whenever I have to present something. When you do it in your mind first, it often feels like a physiological sensation from whatever it is that I am focusing on. For example, when I visualize myself running, I can feel my feet hit the ground on each step. Practicing this will allow you to almost get a preview of what is to come. It won’t always go exactly as you mentally rehearsed but you can get some extra preparation on top of what you have already done by visualizing what it is you’ve set out to do.

Of course, mental imagery isn't always a positive force. In some cases, it can contribute to negative thinking patterns, such as rumination or worry. But with practice and awareness, we can learn to use mental imagery in a way that supports our goals and well-being, and helps us navigate the complexities of the world around us. When those negative patterns do come(because they will), don’t identify with it. Let it come and go without any form of judgment. Just bring yourself back to what you originally intended, which was visualizing what you wanted to do and accomplish.

Here are some ways to practice visualization:

1. Start by closing your eyes to give yourself focus
   

2. In your mind's eye, watch yourself doing the activity using a third person point of view.
   

3. In your mind’s eye, watch yourself do the activity using a first person point of view(Way Harder in my opinion).
   

4. Utilize your 5 senses by paying attention to what you are feeling.
   

5. Picture several different scenarios but have a desired based outcome.
   

6. Be patient with yourself, your mind will wander A LOT.
   

To conclude, I hope you found this post helpful and start to begin the habit of visualization. When utilized, you can improve on anything that you set out to do coupled with the hard work that I am sure you’re putting in. Can’t wait to hear how you all put it into practice, looking forward to hearing all the breakthroughs.

Until Next Time,

E. Ibadin