The Visualisation Mistake That Changed Everything
The Visualisation Mistake That Changed Everything
Ditch the daydreams. Master the visualisation technique that works.
Hi, it’s Clive. This post 5 for my 30 day writing challenge. It’s written for high achieving, ambitious individuals who are exploring elite level performance. Let's exchange what's predictable for what's possible.
Ever felt frustrated when visualisation didn't work for you?
You're not alone.
When I first started using visualisation techniques, I made a critical mistake: I focused solely on the outcome, not the detailed actions needed to achieve it. Seeing the end result is motivational, but it's not that effective.
This often disappointed me.
I discovered Dr. Gabriele Oettingen’s research on "mental contrasting". This made me consider that visualising the end result, obstacles, and the process to achieve would be far more effective than just fantasising positive outcomes.
Then, I found more support for this type of visualisation from sports psychology experts who emphasised mentally rehearsing specific actions, with sensory details.
Bingo!
The research findings matched my experience.
The key lesson: Visualise the specific steps and actions required to reach your goal, rather than just the end result.
I started to experiment with different visualisation techniques. This ultimately led me to integrate the Tiny Habits method I learnt from BJ Fogg. I found this could be used to trigger specific visualisations and from that I developed my own powerful and practical techniques (I will write more on that some other time).
I was mentally rehearsing the process, actively acknowledging potential obstacles, and visualising strategies for overcoming them. All that prepared me for task ahead, which lead to the outcome I wanted.
Alongside this, I started using auditory (self-talk) and kinaesthetic (somatic movement) techniques to work holistically with the visualisation techniques (and more on this another time too).
In conclusion, effective visualisation goes beyond imagining the end goal; it requires mentally rehearsing the detailed steps to achieve it. By combining Tiny Habits with visualisation, you can create a powerful tool for elite performance and achievement.
🚀 Let me ask — what's your biggest challenge in thinking about time differently?
I work 1:1 with highly ambitious achievers on their agenda: including mindset and behaviour change, leading others in a high stakes situations, and influencing decisions with integrity. If that’s for you please get in touch.
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