As we navigate uncertain times—an unchecked Administration, waves of layoffs, and economic instability—it’s easy to feel powerless. But here’s the truth: while we can’t control everything, we can control our mindset.
And that changes everything.
Dr. Joe Dispenza, a renowned author and researcher known for his work in neuroscience teaches that mental rehearsal activates the brain much like real-life experience. In other words, your brain doesn’t always know the difference between imagination and reality. That means you can train yourself into the life you want by visualizing it as if it’s already happened.
This is why actors often need time to detach from intense roles as their minds and bodies blur the line between fiction and reality. Even passive viewers can feel the emotional impact of a story. Imagined experiences have real power.
So why is it hard to visualize our future?
Honestly, when I hear the words, “Visualize your future,” I picture a crystal ball or The Jetsons. It feels vague and… invisible. But Dispenza reminds us: most of us are more practiced at replaying pain and uncomfortable situations than imagining possibility. He urges us to “romance the future, not the past.”
Ironically, for roughly 15 years, I’ve guided clients through visioning sessions, helping them imagine what success looks like for their campaign or organization. I would ask: “How will we know we’ve won? What would the world look like five years after your campaign? What would people and communities be able to do?”
While I’m often met with blank stares at first, soon everyone is contributing vivid statements and imagery. If I can help others envision bold futures, I can learn to do the same for myself.
You can, too.
So, I closed my eyes, and tried again.
Slowly, but surely I was able to visualize purpose-filled experiences and a quality of life that my future self and family would be proud to have.
Try this: begin each day as a mental dress rehearsal
Dr. Dispenza starts each day with a two-hour meditation, visualizing how he wants to show up throughout the day—down to what he’s wearing, how he’s interacting with others, and how he’s feeling. He reconnects with his breath and body.
You don’t need two hours. Start with what feels good to you.
Exercise: Before your next big speaking moment—a pitch, a keynote, or toast—mentally rehearse it the week before… the days before… the morning of. Picture yourself calm, confident, and at ease. Feel it in your body.
That preparation plants seeds, and those seeds guide your actions.
You are not a passive viewer of your life—you are its creator—and it all starts in the mind.
Read May’s full Mpact Musings here for more mindfulness tools.
