Achieve More With 3 Visualization Techniques For Different Types Of Goals
Updated: Apr 15, 2020
Here is why visual goal setting works for your goals, and how to make it effective with 3 techniques for 3 types of goals.
Visualization activates your brain to work on your plan
To help your brain identify a goal as something valuable, it’s important to visualize your desired outcome and steps to get there in detail. When you keep your goals “top of mind”, your mind will help you discover new solutions and approaches [1].
That's why it's a good idea to choose images that represent your goals and dreams.
Here are the 3 essential techniques:
1. Outcome visualization: imagine what life will be like once you achieve your goals
Select an image that appeals to you, and that captures your mood or setting that you want to experience, to find yourself in. We’ve had a lot of practice on Instagram and Pinterest, right? Now it’s time to make the beautiful picture your reality.
For example: I really want to go mountain hiking with my boyfriend. I imagine us tired and excited, having climbed up a rocky path. We’re feeling the cool crisp mountain air against our cheeks and watching the endless blue sky and sunlit hills below.
Such images work especially well for your bucket lists and wish lists because they inspire you to fulfill that experience. Use outcome visualization for major goals, creative projects and once-in-a lifetime experiences.
2. Process visualization: visualize the steps you'll take to get there
Imagine actions that you need to take to achieve your goal or dream. For example, to do that mountain hike we need - among other stuff like saving money - to build stamina and grow muscle. So, I can use an image that reminds me to get in shape before our trip.
OK, I know it’s highly unlikely that I’ll go hiking in that dress. But I love how she is confident in her body’s ability to gracefully climb any mountain. So, this picture motivates me to do some extra squats.
Use process style images for your self-development goals, for example, skills that you want to develop. They will remind you that there's fun to be had in the process. This way, even demanding tasks become more figureoutable because you've imagined how you can tackle them in style.
3. First person visualization: visualize yourself doing it
This works especially well for goals and dreams that seem exciting and even scary. This type of visualization helps us conquer fears and barriers that block us from following our passions.
Recent neuroscience research explains that images taken from first person view are particularly effective because your mind starts to see a possible future from a new perspective [2]. It also helps to overcome stereotypes and limiting beliefs about what you can do.
These can be any images and quotes that represent your future self.
In Wantshes app, you can apply these techniques when you choose a custom cover photo for actions on your wish lists. Make Wantshes your vision board to make into a reality.
What images motivate you to follow up on your plan of action? Let us know.
Staying motivated.
[1] Ruben Gonzalez, The Courage to Succeed
[2] Neuroscience Mag, Using visual imagery to find your true passions