Growing up in the Bronx, Michelle’s mother was the first in her family to attend college. One of the requirements she faced was a public speaking course, and the mere thought of it gave her a stomachache. Fortunately, her teacher gave her three crucial tips: write down key points, practice before a mirror, and visualize speaking before the class. By seeing and hearing herself confidently delivering her speech, Michelle’s mom was able to overcome her fear. This practice of visualization became a breakthrough for her.
In his book Positive Imaging, Norman Vincent Peale explains that visualization involves picturing a desired goal in your conscious mind until it sinks into your unconscious mind.
For more than 20 years, Michelle has researched and written about the power of the mind to fulfill our dreams. This was explored in her most recent book, The Miracle Club. She discovered that visualizing positive change is not only easier than we think, but more powerful than we realize.
To ensure that visualization is effective, Michelle notes the importance of having goals that are realistic and achievable. If you dream of one day starting a dog-grooming business, have you got the skills? What are the next steps to get them? Authentic dreams are actionable.
It is also important to feel the confidence that comes with the ability to succeed. Michelle often thinks back to something she learned from her teacher, Neville Goddard: Visualize yourself in a small, satisfying scene that implies the achievement of your aim. Bask in the emotions of your accomplishment. For example, if you’re looking to be promoted at work, picture your boss shaking your hand. Put yourself right in the middle of the action.
When Michelle struggles to visualize a desired goal, she takes a break. The best time to use the visualization method is when your emotions are in a positive or relaxed state, such as before drifting off to sleep. This is called the hypnagogic state, and it is a prime time for visualizations and affirmations.
Visualizations need to be clear, with a focus on what you need rather than the steps needed to achieve it. Remember, reaching goals can take time, but the results are always worth it. God has given all of us the gifts to make our dreams come true. As Norman Vincent Peale said years ago, “great, untapped energies” are just waiting to be released.