Knowing how things work can significantly benefit us, and this holds true for visualization. Why do we need to visualize to achieve our goals? This article delves into the neurology of visualization and why visualizing your goals is crucial.
Why visualization?
Across the internet and in numerous books, you’ll find that visualization is recommended for pursuing various goals, whether they’re related to health, wealth, or education. Visualization helps you make your goals specific. Those familiar with the power of visualization know that you can manipulate various submodalities to enhance your visualization experience.
The power of visualization
I’ve experienced firsthand the power of visualization. Recently, when I saw a new Chevrolet Corvette, I imagined driving it. I visualized sitting in the car, smelled the new interior, and heard the V8 engine roar. This vivid visualization made the experience feel real and reinforced my desire to achieve it.
Visualization allows you to emotionally and sensorially experience a future scenario. The neurology of visualization and empathy explains how our brains process these imagined experiences as if they were real.
The neurology of visualization
Our bodies cannot differentiate between imagined and real emotions. This is why visualization is so powerful. For instance, you might think, “I can’t do this because I failed before,” or “He won’t like me because he never greets me.” These thoughts are based on assumptions. By visualizing positive outcomes, we can reframe our thinking.
The idea of visualization starts with fully immersing yourself in a future scenario. By repeatedly visualizing this future situation in detail, you create new neural pathways in your brain. The saying “neurons that fire together, wire together” underscores this process. The more you visualize, the stronger these neural connections become.
Reticular Activation System (RAS)
Visualization conditions your brain to adapt to future scenarios. This process involves the Reticular Activation System (RAS), a network of neurons that links to your imagined future. The stronger and more frequent the visualization, the more durable these neurological connections become. Daily visualization, or multiple times a day, helps your brain take the necessary steps to achieve your goals, both consciously and unconsciously.
This method has proven effective over the years. Top athletes, for example, visualize their competitions months in advance, step by step, to build these neural networks and optimize performance.
Perceptual filters and the neurology of visualization
We are bombarded with millions of pieces of information every second. Our subconscious mind can process about 11 million bits per second, but consciously, we can only handle 40 to 120 bits per second. Our brains filter out irrelevant information, allowing us to focus on what matters. These perceptual filters enable us to prioritize visualized goals.
Tips for effective visualization
To harness the neurology of visualization, consider these tips:
1. Be specific
In your visualization, be extremely detailed. Imagine every aspect of your goal. If you want a holiday home, visualize every detail: the view, the scent of lavender, the cushions, the birds chirping. Engage all your senses and intensify the experience by adjusting colors, sounds, and scents.
2. Add emotion
Emotion is crucial in visualization. Imagine achieving your goal and feel the satisfaction and gratitude. This engages your brain’s limbic system, making your visualization more powerful. You can enhance this by listening to music that symbolizes success for you.
3. Condition yourself
Regular, disciplined visualization is key. Spend 5 to 10 minutes a few times a day visualizing your dreams. Find a quiet place to focus, and remember, repetition strengthens neurological connections.
Conclusion
Visualization is a powerful technique for pursuing your dreams. Successful people often excel in visualization and use it to achieve their goals. By applying these insights, you can effectively visualize and work towards your aspirations.
