Good day, Purposeful Hearts! We are taking a sharp turn away from the Reason brain set this week and charging forward into the depths of imagination. The Envision brain set is just as its name implies: it’s accessing our ability to create a vision in front of us (whether our eyes are open or closed) and see its detail, its possibilities, and its potential.
If you have the Envision brain set, you are likely to enjoy all sorts of mental imagery exercises, you’re probably goal oriented, and you’ve likely used visualization practices for sports, music, healing, or some form of public performance. For example, my brain loves to envision, and I’ve often used this skill before sports or public speaking events. Before a volleyball or softball game, I’d often picture myself blocking an attack or taking a powerful swing at the plate. Before presenting, I’ll often picture myself in front of the crowd and, in essence, “watch” my future self performing well. Have you done anything like that?
The cool part of this process is that your brain doesn’t know the difference between you actually hitting that volleyball and just imagining that you are. (If you’ve ever accidentally thrown your arm in the air while falling asleep daydreaming about playing a sport, you know what I mean!) It’s like getting extra reps without the wear and tear on the body!
So, what else does the Envision brain set do? Well, because of its connection to our activities and mental imagery, the Envision brain set plays a big role in our mental health and well-being. It can even help us refine and sharpen our self-identity, because we use our mind’s eye to imagine how we’d like to present ourselves to others and how we hope our interactions will go. We can use this process positively and constructively, but we can also belittle and criticize ourselves as we picture who we are – so be careful with what you imagine and how you label your gifts and abilities. Stay positive and keep your eyes on your God-given purpose and identity.
The Envision brain set is also in full effect when we engage in hypothetical thinking. What a fun brain exercise! Try playing a few rounds of “What if?” at the dinner table with your family and see what outrageous and creative ideas arise during your conversation! On a more serious note, try asking “What if?” about a challenging issue that you need to address with a fresh perspective. Have fun with this approach to creative thinking and remember to use your newfound skills for good!
Carson, S. (2012). Your Creative Brain: Seven Steps to Maximize Imagination, Productivity, and Innovation in Your Life. Jossey-Bass.
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