Imagery is something we all use each day. When we think about future events, we form a picture in our mind of how that event might go. Those with a positive mindset are likely to picture the event going well while those with a negative mindset are more likely to picture a negative outcome. This might not seem important but effective imagery can play a significant role in our daily lives and the results we achieve.
We perform better in activities for which we prepare. It has long been accepted that we need to do proper physical training before we take on a difficult physical challenge. We know that we need to study for exams and take driving lessons before taking our driving test. For almost any difficult situation, we understand the need for preparation. As important as we know preparation to be, we commonly neglect the importance of proper mental preparation. Effective imagery is an essential aspect of mental preparation.
Sports scientists and psychologists have realised the importance of effective imagery in preparing mentally for challenging events. Most modern sport stars avail of the services of a coach or psychologist to help them use effective imagery to prepare for events. The imagery techniques employed, help them to reduce stress and maximise performance, by mentally rehearsing the event as they wish it to go. This prepares both body and mind for the challenge. The positive imagery leads to positive expectations which increase the chance of a positive outcome. In recent times, these techniques have been transferred to business and personal life, to great success. Using effective imagery has been shown to be of great benefit in many areas of life.
6 Areas where effective imagery can boost performance
The following list identifies areas of our lives where imagery can boost performance:
- Focusing on goals
- Coping with challenges/stressful situations
- Increasing motivation
- Developing perspective
- Aiding relaxation
- Reducing cravings
High performance requires proper preparation. We would never dream of taking on a difficult physical challenge without doing proper physical preparation. However, we often neglect the important role of mental preparation. Using effective imagery is essential mental preparation. Failing to use effective imagery techniques leaves our imagery to chance. A bad mood could lead us to have negative thoughts and negative imagery which in turn leads to negative expectations and results. Our personal success is far too important to be left to chance. Consistently using effective imagery raises our expectations, our self-belief and our performance. If we want the best results, it is essential that we make space in our schedule to use effective imagery techniques.