Elite athletes may be extremely different from one another, but they each possess certain character traits and habits that allow them to be elite performers. Each elite athlete has their own process. With that said, there are a few common themes that are essential to each athlete. One of those themes is the practice of visualization.
Visualization is the practice of seeing mental images or clips of events that have happened or will happen in real life. Elite performers all practice this, painting the picture of different scenarios in their mind. They do this at some point before competition, whether it is right before the game, the night before, or in the morning of the game. It does not particularly matter when it is done.
One thing I have noticed during my career is that I did not even know that I was visualizing or that it was beneficial. Once I learned more about visualization, I was able to practice intentionally and I was able to see exactly what I wanted to see. It gave me a sense of control over my career. It became a non-negotiable habit in my routine since I could see my results improving.
Visualization is for everyone. This is not only for elite performers, but I do think that this is one of the tools that helped them reach the elite level. The key to this is to start now and build this into your habits. Practice this as much as possible to get better at it. You will not be disappointed.
So one question remains…
“How do I start visualizing?”
Here are 3 tips to help you start visualizing and to refine your skills:
- Be future-focused
Being future-focused allows you to see what you want to happen in real life. An example would be crushing the ball over the opposite field fence for the first time in your life. It could be fielding a back hand grounder cleanly as you have trouble with doing it consistently. Visualizing each scenario that you want to come true is essential.
- Gather as much detail as possible
Gathering as much detail as possible will ensure that you are making the scenario as realistic as possible. If you know the starting pitcher that day and how he attacks you, then you can visualize that along with the result you are looking for. Adding onto the example, you can also picture the exact field that you will be playing at, the background, the field, your team cheering you on, their team on defense, the weather conditions, and so on. The more detailed, the more realistic, the better your visualization will be.
- Do it everyday
Consistency is the key to being successful. The more consistent you can do this, the better you will be. Visualizing is taking mental repetitions. You can only take so many repetitions during practice, but you can take repetitions mentally all day. The more repetitions you take, the more confidence you will have and the chances of succeeding are much higher. Visualize in the car on the way to the field, before you fall asleep or get out of bed, right before your at-bat, before practice, and anytime you have time. You can do this anywhere and no one even has to know you are doing it.
Visualization is a very powerful tool for everyone. Maximize this tool by being future-focused, gathering as much detail as possible, and doing it everyday. Your career will be significantly impacted by incorporating visualization into your daily practice.
