Imagination – the ability to visualize or to form images and ideas in the mind, especially of things never experienced directly (Encarta Dictionary)
We all have one – an imagination. That’s a good thing. Most of us aren’t very skilled at using it, however. Ever had a special event to look forward to or had a dream you’d like to see come to fruition? Of course, we all have. But have you ever caught yourself imagining something less than wonderful about it? Maybe you’ve seen yourself trip as you cross the stage to accept your diploma or visualized yourself tongue-tied at the job interview.
Shakti Gwain, author of Creative Visualization, teaches various visualization practices to expand our belief and ability to receive. After reading her book, I began to recognize how often I mis-used my imagination, thwarting my progress toward my goals. Gwain gave me permission to make up something good for myself and taught me the value of imagining it regularly. I now catch myself much sooner than before when I lapse into negative visualizing. If I was imagining resistance to what I want, I replace the idea with the thought that my wishes are readily accepted. If I’m running late, I stop seeing myself apologizing and instead visualize the other party being late, too, and the timing being perfect.
Sometimes I just create a scene of what I want coming true. One of my favorites is me appearing on the Ellen DeGeneres show to talk about my book. I don’t just see myself as a big hit; I see the scene in great detail. I imagine walking on stage, the audience’s applause, and Ellen greeting me. Since Ellen and I are the same age, I see us as good friends. We easily relate to the same things and of course, I’m witty and funny. (All that Toastmasters training is paying off!) I tell stories that delight the audience. Ellen is so pleased I was a guest that she invites me back. I sell many books and my speaking career takes off.
Treating myself to this scene is great fun, and it doesn’t hurt anyone. I have no idea why it’s taken me so long to get this. Why would I ever choose to imagine anything other than the very best for myself? I invite you to ask yourself this question – and start today to make up something really good for yourself. There’s far too much negativity, pain, and shame in the world. Let’s not create any more!