Visualisation is a simple yet powerful technique. At its core, it’s about imagining something so vividly in your mind that it feels real. But how does it work? Why is it beneficial? And most importantly, how can you use it in your everyday life? Jodii Maguire, from Think Performance Psychology, joined Lean and Dan to break it down.
What is Visualisation?
Visualisation is something we all do daily, often without realising it. We imagine stories, worry about the future, or replay past events in our minds. But when done intentionally, visualisation becomes a tool to prepare, practice, and succeed.
For athletes, visualisation is a cornerstone of performance. Whether it’s perfecting a technique, mastering a move, or overcoming the anxiety of returning to a place where an injury occurred, seeing success in their mind helps them achieve it in reality.
Why Visualisation Works
Visualisation builds confidence by creating a sense of familiarity. When you mentally rehearse an event—whether it’s a sports game, a presentation, or a difficult conversation—you trick your brain into thinking you’ve already experienced it. This makes the actual event feel less intimidating and more manageable. As a result, visualisation can reduce anxiety, boost confidence, and give you a sense of control.
How to Use Visualisation in Everyday Life
The great news? Visualisation isn’t just for athletes. Anyone can use it to navigate challenging situations or achieve their goals. Here’s how:
- Mental Rehearsal: Picture the situation clearly in your mind. Imagine the environment, the people, and your actions. Practice what you’ll say or do, step by step.
- Vision Boards: Create a visual representation of your goals. This could include images, quotes, or symbols that represent what you want to achieve.
- Success Charts: Track progress visually to see how far you’ve come and what’s next.
- Talk It Out: Share your visualisation with someone. Describe your goals, the steps you’ll take, and the outcome you want. Talking through it can make it feel more tangible and achievable.
Overcoming Doubts
Many people hesitate to use tools like vision boards because they feel unusual or uncomfortable. But that’s exactly why they work. Success often comes from stepping out of your comfort zone and doing what others aren’t willing to do.
So, whether it’s creating a vision board filled with your aspirations (even if it’s a bit quirky!) or visualising yourself acing a big meeting, don’t let self-doubt hold you back. Visualisation isn’t magic, but it is a powerful way to train your mind for success. Start small, embrace the process, and watch as your confidence and performance soar.
Listen to the full conversation below.