Visualization -- a tool to make the unbearable, bearable!

Recently, I finished a CBT Life Coach Certificate from Transformation Academy. CBT is known as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy or Techniques, with the goal of retraining the mind to think positively. Yes! I am now fully certified to help with CBT techniques and ... they WORK!

One of the CBT techniques, that I have used for many years, is visualization. Visualization is where you create a scenario either in your mind, written, or using some method where you can "see" the scenario. The beauty of visualization is that you can play out how the scenario could possible work, without actually living it at that moment. You experiment with different types of responses or actions you might take when something happens.

A few examples of where I have used visualization:

1. In my early years of scuba diving, as we approached Monterey's sand dunes, I would go into my own little world by listening to heavy rock music with my iPod. I would visualize every step of the dive from setting up the gear to descending into the water and back on land with all of the gear.

2. Before my interview to become a Vice Principal, I visualized how I would sit, the smile on my face, the tone of my voice, the types of answers I was giving, and making eye contact with my soon to be boss, co-worker, and friend.

3. My first time having a parent meeting, as a Vice Principal, I visualized the possible reactions they would have and how I could professionally handle those reactions, while remaining on point of the meeting.

4. When I need to have a difficult conversation with a loved one, I visualize how they would take the information I presented, how I can present the information in a respectful yet comprehendible way, and think of any pitfalls that might happen.

In all of these examples, I thought through how certain events would take place, before they actually happened. This allowed me to think about the steps I wanted to take and the goals I wanted to achieve out of each action. It also allowed me to prepare and "live" through the event, thus when it actually was happening I had more bandwidth to manage the unexpected curve balls from the event.

Visualization helps individuals understand what they want (and don't want) out of situations that can cause stress. I recommend using visualization as a tool to help you manage your minds reaction to an event that you may know can cause you anxiety.

If you need a little extra hand in how to do this successfully, please book a CBT Session and email me for scheduling at msdavies.atalsinc@gmail.com.

Please share your experience using visualization and how it has helped you overcome a stressful event.