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Why Visualization Doesn't work - posted by Matt on Tuesday, November 15th, 2011 2:19 am

The roots of visualization go back a very long way. As far as performance goes, Visualization (def: create in your mind) is used to create mental imagery to practice skills and to imagine performing successfully. It is a focus on positive thinking. For example, a golfer might visualize over and over again the perfect stroke until they feel familiar with it.  Quite simply, they do this because they are not yet familiar with the “perfect” action. But how do you become familiar with something by thinking about it? Don’t we learn from the direct experience?

To understand how visualization creates a separation, let’s understand the difference between the brain and the mind. The brain is associated with the intellect, with analysation and memory… with thinking. The Mind is associated with deeper states of perception and innate knowing… feeling.

Quite simply, we think what we don’t know and we feel what we do, because if you knew it, you wouldn’t have to think about it. If thinking is the expression of self-doubt, how can you become surer about your performance by thinking about it?

How we learn is from the direct experience, not the thought. In reality, thinking creates a separation.  Look closely at your life and your performance and ask yourself this… Has thinking ever gotten in the way?

There are many reasons why people mentally rehearse: Fear of (the unknown) can lead us into controlling it with the intellect. Fear of not being good enough can lead into the creation of ego… another separation. Visualization can also form expectations… often the prelude to disappointment.

If you are not prepared for an event, you need more practice, not more thinking.

If you are unable to do a skill, the same applies. Patience and focus is needed here, so you can learn from your training without distraction.

The most effective way I have found to develop focus and open up learning is by practicing Kelee Meditation. This unique practice involves stilling the mind, thus eliminating any source of separation and creating mindfulness – another term for pure focus. Other benefits include less brain chatter, higher degree of awareness and detachment from negativity within.

There is no way to be in the future. There is only staying present in mind and bringing out the best of your developed ability. As far as the future is concerned, trust that when you get there, you will know what to do. If you make a mistake, you were either not paying attention. i.e. distracted, or you were attempting something you don’t yet know how to do. In this case, you need more practice, not more thinking. Let go of control from brain (visualization) and learn from the direct experience.  The best form of mental preparation is being present, so you can adapt immediately to any situation you are in. After all, what’s better, thinking you’re better, or being better?