The ability to form a picture of something in your mind can be very powerful. We can use this asset to help us succeed in the game of life…

As Mohammed Ali said, “if my mind can conceive it and my heart can believe it, then I can achieve it.” Our ability to “see” a target for the future can actually draw us to that target. How?

Here are 5 steps that can help you envision the future so that you can give yourself a greater probability of achieving that vision or result.

1.       Set clear goals. We all know that goals can help us achieve our success. To be able to vision or “see” the future, it is important that your goals are clear enough so that you can draw a picture of the end result in your mind. This works with just about any of the goals you set, whether they are short medium or long-range goals. (More on goal setting here.)

And just remember, for you to be able to picture or “vision” the goal, it must be SMART – Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant and Time-bound.

2.       Picture the result. This is where visioning can work its magic. By allowing your mind to “see” the end result of your journey or efforts, that vision can motivate you toward that goal. This picture should be specific. As an example, if your goal is to write a book, your picture might be you sitting at the local bookstore signing your book for a fan. If your goal is to travel to Paris, your vision could be you standing in front of the Eiffel Tower. If your goal is to lose 10 pounds by your daughter’s wedding in 3 months, picture yourself in the smaller size dress you want to wear at the wedding.

3.       Picture the interim steps. The more complex or long-term the goal, the more useful it is to also use this idea of visioning to picture the interim successes that lead to that goal. As noted above, the method is the same. Use your mind’s ability to picture the milestones that will enable your final result. As an example, if your goal is to run a marathon, picture yourself finishing your first 4 mile run – where you will run, where you will end, and the bench where you will rest.

4.       Keep your vision present. In addition to painting specific pictures in your mind about these visions, use visuals to add strength and power to this technique. As an example, you might put a picture of the Eiffel Tower on your refrigerator, on your screensaver or on your bulletin board. Writing the goal is another way to bring strength to your vision. As an example, you might write the specific goal in your day planner,  your white board, or your journal. Finally, sharing your goal with others – talking about it – can keep that vision present.

5.       Use affirmations. Affirmations can be quite useful in solidifying beliefs. When you believe you can achieve something, your motivation can be heightened. Affirmations work best when they are used in the present tense. “I am a marathon runner.” “I am an excellent putter.” “I am a healthy eater.” The more you use affirmations, the more your brain can impact your behavior to validate those affirmations.

Visioning is a very powerful tool in the game of life. It employs a belief in the power of your mind to enable you to do, be, or have what’s important to you. I think it adds a fun dimension to goal setting, one that can work wonders. Pictures are fun to paint.

So, what picture will you paint next?