This is something I’ve been doing since my middle school years of playing basketball, although I didn’t necessarily know what it was called at the time!

As we listened to the National Anthem before each game, I’d focus my attention on one particular star on the United States flag and I’d visualize myself playing exactly as I wanted to in the game.

I’d picture the plays we would run, the rebounds I would grab, the baskets I would make, and every little action in between.

I didn’t just “see” it either… I let myself imagine every detail so that I could actually feel myself playing.

I’d feel my heart beating faster, my legs stretching down the court, the sweat collecting on my forehead, and how I’d feel celebrating after I made that 3-pointer.

It might sound ridiculous, but it worked. Visualizing helped me play better. My confidence was higher, my vision was clearer and my subconscious was at work to help me play at my highest level.

I continued to visualize throughout all the years I played sports, but it wasn’t long before I realized that visualization was an incredible skill that could apply to so many other things in my life.

I’ve used visualization before important business meetings and appointments, visualizing that my guest and I would have a great connection immediately, that we’d laugh and have a good time, that they would be totally receptive to what I was sharing with them, and so much more.

I’ve used visualization to imagine myself waking up easily and effortlessly, excited to workout, have my quiet time, and take on the day.

I actually dedicated an entire episode of my podcast to visualization and all the ways I’ve used it in my lifetime because I honestly believe it can help anyone… not just in work or sports, but in life!

Just remember this… practicing visualization is like a muscle! The more you do it, the easier and more powerful it will become.