Why should you and how do you use a clear mental picture? For me this is the best tool to have in every situation. A definite mental image tells me when to and when not to.
When you are traveling there are two things you must know, your current location and your desired destination. You must also know when you are leaving and when you are arriving. The arrival time has to allow for stops, speed limits and traffic delays etc. When you attach arrival times to your end destination you are well on your way to enjoying your trip. Since you know when you are leaving you can pack ahead of time and when you put some thought into where you might stop along the way and you have checked the weather conditions for this journey you are prepared and can expect to have a good experience with this it!
Departure time has now arrived! It is comforting to have prepared in advance. You now walk to your vehicle. Feel the door handle as you open the door, you step into the truck that is full of fuel and has everything you will need for the trip! Feel the seat and the brake pedal, the steering wheel, the gas pedal! Now that you are fully aware of your surroundings you look out through the windshield and because you can see the road you now guide your vehicle effortlessly down the road and you are in motion toward your destination. Your destination will become a stabilizer for you so that if you go off course at any time on the journey you can correct it immediately and get right back on track! The time of your arrival will also keep you from wasting valuable time; it works as a continuing encourager to keep you moving forward. At last your prior preparation has you at your destination a bit early and now you can unload in a relaxed attitude and enjoy your time!!
The trip that I just painted for you in your mind is exactly how I ride my horses! I use a clear mental picture of what I want my horse to look like and what I want them to do. This tells me when to do and what to do, to help them to see my picture . This image for me includes but is not limited to posture, attitude and movement as desired. When my horses see my picture, they experience the peace that comes by effortlessly yielding to my suggestions as I guide them on the journey!
Picture Your Ride,
Dennis Cappel
