The Power of Imagery

“It’s important to keep trying to do what you think is right no matter how hard it is or how often you fail. Never stop trying” – John Wooden

It has been proven that imagery enhances performances and helps athletes learn new skills and control emotions.

The most elite basketball athletes have used imagery regularly.

To maximize the power of imagery, be clear on the results you want to achieve on the basketball court.

Whether you want to improve your mental game skill, implement new techniques, or elevate your game, get a clear vision of what you want the results to be first.

The Connection between Imagery and Performance

Reproducing basketball skills or game situations mentally allows you to practice more often; hence your performance will improve. Practicing imagery will enable you to manage your emotions and improve your skills.

Imagery works best when it is created as vivid as possible using all senses.

For instance, the ball being thrown (visual), hearing the crowd cheer (hearing), and turn and accelerate to get to the ball (kinaesthetic).

It is helpful to use imagery to recreate the sensations when you perform at the highest level to counterbalance stress with feelings of joy, pride, and confidence.

To influence what an athlete is imagining can be done with “controllability,” which manages your thoughts and ideal performance. And with “vividness,” paying special attention to the colors, senses, emotions, and feelings while moving your body.

One way to help you create powerful images is to find a video of someone executing the technique well. After watching the video, close your eyes to re-experience the skill in your mind (internal perspective). Keep seeing the image in your mind until it becomes identical to the actual skill performed.  Another way is to see yourself as if you are watching yourself perform on TV (external imagery). You can then choose what perspective is more powerful for you.

Imagery can make reaching your goals more enjoyable by keeping you focused, confident, and motivated.

Take advantage of my FREE Guided Imagery Audio – Text Mental Game to 33777 and get your free Guided Imagery Audio. This will help you Elevate Your Game NOW!