Why Visioning is Key to Living Your Best Life!
Before you drag out the poster board, glue stick, and magazines, do you really understand the purpose behind a vision board? It’s not “magic” as some would like to believe. You don’t just slap a picture on a piece of paper and watch it “manifest”. There is actual science behind visioning.
What Is Visioning?
Visioning is the process of imagining your ideal future with clarity and focus and is a cornerstone of personal and professional success. Rooted in psychology and neuroscience, visioning allows individuals to mentally and emotionally “see” their desired outcomes before they materialize, providing both motivation and a clear sense of direction. While it may seem like a simple exercise, its impact on success and well-being is profound and supported by extensive research and expert analysis.
At its core, visioning involves creating a vivid mental image of your aspirations. It goes beyond setting goals; it’s about forming a comprehensive picture of your ideal life, encompassing career achievements, relationships, personal growth, and well-being. This mental rehearsal connects the conscious mind with the subconscious, helping individuals align their actions with their deepest desires.
Psychologists define visioning as a cognitive process where individuals project themselves into the future to create a sense of purpose and clarity. Unlike goal-setting, which focuses on measurable milestones, visioning addresses the broader question of “What do I truly want from life?”
Dr. Stephen Kosslyn, a renowned neuroscientist, explains that imagining success engages the brain similarly to experiencing the event in real life. This process fosters a sense of optimism and determination, which are essential for achieving goals. It also activates the brain’s reward system, releasing dopamine—a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and motivation.
Additionally, visioning acts as a mental filter, helping individuals prioritize actions that align with their long-term aspirations. According to Dr. Gail Matthews, a psychology professor at Dominican University, individuals who vividly describe their goals and aspirations are 42% more likely to achieve them compared to those who do not. It provides the mental framework needed to stay focused amid life’s distractions.
Visioning doesn’t just focus on external achievements; it also cultivates inner resilience. By imagining overcoming obstacles and achieving desired outcomes, individuals build a psychological buffer against stress. Dr. Carol Dweck, a psychologist and author of Mindset, emphasizes that visioning fosters a growth mindset, encouraging individuals to see challenges as opportunities for development rather than setbacks.
A Path to Your Best Life
Helen Keller said, “The only thing worse than being blind is having sight but no vision.” The eyes allow us to see what is before us, but vision permits us to see far more.
Take a look around you. Everything ever created started as an idea…a vision, even our lives, for better or worse. Many of us feel stuck in place, simply because we have not created a vision of anything greater. Hence, we cannot have, what we cannot see.
Visioning isn’t just a fun exercise—it’s a proven way to create the life you want. By helping you focus, boosting your confidence, and training your brain for success, visioning makes your dreams feel achievable.
If living your best life is your goal, visioning is the tool that can guide you there. Take time to imagine your ideal future—you might be surprised at how powerful your mind can be.
Ready to imagine, create, and live your Best Life? A coach can guide you through the process of creating your Life Vision and help you navigate the journey toward your NorthStar. Click here to book your free Strategy Call with me, and start the new year with confidence.
