Permanently Happy

By practicing intentional imagination, you can train your brain to visualize your goals as if they have already been accomplished. This guide outlines a five-step exercise that can help you do just that, encouraging a more fulfilling and purposeful life.

Step 1: Define Your Goals Clearly

Begin by defining what you truly want in life. Write down your goal, making it specific, clear, and measurable. Consider what you want, by when, and how you will know you've achieved it. For example, instead of writing "I want to be healthier," specify "I want to run a 5K by the end of the year." This clarity will guide your imagination and provide a concrete target to aim for.

Step 2: Find Your Tranquil Space

Choose a serene and tranquil place where you feel safe to practice visualization. Consistency is key, so aim to practice every day. The best times to engage in this exercise are when you're falling asleep or waking up, as your brain is in a theta wave state. Theta waves are powerful for integrating new patterns and thoughts into your mind. To make the most of this, set two alarms in the morning, spaced five to ten minutes apart. The first alarm gently wakes you, allowing you to remain in a drowsy state and practice your visualization.

Step 3: Visualize Your Goal Achieved

Once you have your goal and your tranquil space, it's time to imagine your goal as already achieved. Visualize yourself being, doing, and having what you desire. Describe in detail:

• Being: What kind of person are you now that you've reached your goal?
• Doing: What actions are you taking?
• Having: What do you now possess or experience as a result?
  
  

Make these visualizations vivid and detailed. The clearer the image in your mind, the more effective the exercise will be.

Step 4: Engage Your Senses

Connect your visualization to your five senses. Ask yourself:

• What do you see?
• What do you hear?
• What do you feel physically?
• What do you smell?
• What do you taste?
  
  

Identify which senses resonate most strongly with you and focus on activating those. This sensory connection enhances the realism of your visualization, making it more impactful.

Step 5: Activate Your Emotions

The final and most crucial step is to connect with the emotions you'd feel once your goal is achieved. Emotions are the driving force behind your imagination. They energize and solidify your visualized reality into your subconscious. Feel the joy, pride, or excitement as if it were happening right now. This emotional engagement is what truly powers your imagination.

Building Consistency and Commitment

After completing your visualization, reflect on your imaginative qualities. Identify your strengths and weaknesses. Consistency is the greatest strength you can develop. To help with this, leave reminders such as post-its or a notepad on your bedside table.

Write down three specific actions that demonstrate your commitment to this daily practice. For example:

• Set a nightly reminder on your phone.
• Join a group to share experiences and keep each other accountable.
• Take a quick nap during the day to revisit your visualization in a drowsy state.
  
  

These actions will help you stay committed and reinforce the power of your imagination, significantly impacting your future.

Reflection

Remember, the practice of intentional imagination does not require much time or resources, but it demands consistency. The commitment you show to this practice can open doors to a life filled with purpose and fulfillment. Start today, and watch your imagination shape the future you've always wanted.

— Sandro Formica, PhD

Founder of Permanently Happy (questions at [email protected])

Keynote Speaker | Transforming Leaders & Organizations Through Positive Leadership & Personal Branding | Director, Chief Happiness Officer Certificate Program