Imagining success

November 17, 2009 louhamilton

A few years ago I made a film about people with terminal illness. It was due to be a three part series for Channel 4 to be filmed over 6 months with people whose prognosis was about that length of time. It was a groundbreaking attempt to try and break down the taboo of death by exploring the science of the dying process, the care provided and people’s own personal stories. However things didn’t quite go according to plan. People didn’t die in 6 months. We spoke to a leading neuropsychoimmunologist who explained that when someone with terminal illness has something specific to look forward to they are often able to live for longer. In this case people were enjoying being filmed and felt it important to be able to tell their stories. We ended up filming for three years and the series increased to five parts, one of which was solely dedicated to what helped people live longer. When someone has a specific event to live for they are imagining it in their minds. They are picturing what the day will be like and seeing themselves being there. They can actually feel what it will be like and it feels good. That sends positive signals to the brain, gives a boost to their immune system and to their sense of well-being. In this way they greatly increase their chance of seeing that day happen in reality. Many more people die after big events in their lives, a birthday, a birth, a wedding. There is an increase in the amount of deaths after New Year’s Day. But let’s not wait until we are dying to make use of our ability to imagine the future and then make it really happen. We can do it every morning when we wake up. It can be anything- you have an important meeting at 5pm. Imagine yourself there, picture yourself being dynamic, attractive in your vitality and enthusiasm, and then visualise the outcome being exactly how you wish it to be: you get the finance for your project, you get the job, you nail the deal, you are offered the opportunity you were after. When you are a practiced imaginator there will be a spring in your step as you make your way through the day, because your head is filled with the best outcome imaginable. Or, you could not do that. You could wake up worried, anxious; later you will be nervous about going into the meeting and fearful that it will all go wrong. With that approach in your mind it probably will! No matter what preparation you have done if you don’t imagine that you will be successful then you almost certainly won’t be. What will your day, week, year, life be like? The choice is yours. Exercising your imagination to create success is as important as keeping your body fit. It makes the difference between a grey life and a vibrant, colourful, magnificent and fulfilling one. Dream on!

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