The Power of Visualisation
Visualisation is a well known tool used in preparing sports professionals for a big race, match or game. But it’s also incredibly powerful in the day to day, for the purpose of improving performance, confidence and self-belief. The interplay between reality and perceived in the human brain is incredibly powerful. We can harness the imagination to change our perception of ourselves and our belief of what’s possible.
This article in The New Scientist article, by the brilliant David Robson illuminates not only why visualisation works, but also how we can practice it to improve our ability to achieve our goals. For best results, researchers suggest:
- honing our skills of imagination with daily practice
AND
- pairing visualisation with physical practice
If you don't find visualising/seeing things in your mind’s eye easy or second nature (e.g. you can't see yourself walking down a sandy beach/climbing a mountain when given that scenario), rest assured it's something you can actually practice and get better at. Try the following steps:
Pick something simple you want to improve (e.g. your running pace, your confidence communicating at work)
Focus on one small aspect of that goal (e.g. your feet hitting the pavement, seeing the smiles and approbation of your colleagues)
Practice visualising that small aspect every day (perhaps first thing in the morning/in the shower, walking to work)
Repeat this practice daily for a week
As the image you've chosen becomes clearer in your mind, try expanding it to include other aspects of that goal. You'll soon find your powers of imagination become stronger.
Perhaps your running pace or public speaking will improve too!
Do you find visualisation a helpful tool? I'd love to hear your experiences with it 🤔
A brilliant resource: Visualise by Maya Raichoora. A great book for some simple steps & an easy way in to visualisation.