One of the most powerful, yet most overlooked tools in the manifesting toolbox is visualization. Why is it so overlooked? There are some very common misconceptions that prevent people from leveraging this awesome tool. Some of the most common are;

1.) “I just cannot visualize. I just cannot make good pictures in my head..” – this is probably the most common. Visualization takes practice. Start with just 30 second or one minute at first. Put yourself in the scene where you want to find yourself in real life. Do the best you can. Even if you can’t make a clear picture at first, try to work at it. If you cannot picture images, try to find the “feeling” or the emotion you would be experiencing.

2.) “I did it three days in a row and NOTHING happened..” is another common reason. Again, this takes time and patience. The Universe will align your dream scenario on its timeline, not yours. Stay committed, do your best and know that the Universe has your back. Be patient.

3.) “I get too distracted.” Definitely. This happens. Your mind is not used to sitting still. This goes back to tip number one. Practice, do your best and it will get easier. My general rule is to visualize for no more than 5 minutes at a time, and just once or twice a day.

Here are some tips to help your visualization sessions go more smoothly and yield better results.

A.) User a timer. The timer on your phone would work just fine.

B.) Be consistent. Book some time in advance. Try to keep the time as consistent as possible. I have found that just before bed is the best time. It lets your visualization replay in your head as you sleep.

C.) Calm, quiet setting. Try to find a place where you will not be disturbed by pets, kids or other people. I always use a nice pair of noise canceling headphones. Beats Studio 3’s or Sennheisers are perfect for me. They block out any and all noise and are very comfortable.

D.) Engage ALL of your senses. Visualization is about full immersion from all of your senses. Sounds, smells, touch and definitely EMOTION. Craft the perfect and complete scenario in your head just as you will experience it when your dreamed about scenario comes to fruition. It’s been scientifically proven that your brain cannot differentiate between “real” or imagined.

Remember, just five minutes a day can bring real change to your life. Be patient, if you are new to visualization you need to undo the negative patterns and beliefs that have built up over your lifetime.

Enjoy the process and stay consistent. Your future self will thank you for it!