Before You Begin: The Power of Visualizing Your Goals

Today I want to share an exercise that I practice at the beginning of any project or any big undertaking that I am about to embark on.

I like to practice visualization. While this is not a new concept, because of its abstract nature, it is something that could be very easily overlooked. However, I invite you to not take it for granted. It is easy and only requires the investment of time.

When I am about to embark on a project, I evaluate its feasibility by analyzing as many facts and information as I can gather. The time and effort spent on this step depends on the complexity of the project. Once I have decided to take the project, or committed to developing a goal further, I like to visualize. I close my eyes, take a deep breath and try to see the outcome. I try to see as clearly as possible where I want to go, how I would feel when I get there, and what success looks like. This is very important, because how else am I supposed to know that I have arrived?

It takes time and practice, and there are some elusive times when I just can't see it. Sometimes that tells me that I need to re-evaluate the approach. Some other times, I just focus on the feelings around it, instead of trying to see the picture. It is usually a very quick exercise and 5-10 minutes is enough. I try to do it for a few days and that makes me feel that I am set up for a good start.

At the beginning of another amazing year, it is the perfect time to look internally and search for clarity for this new cycle. Many things will change as this year develops, but it really helps to start with something in mind.

I know many of us like to make a list of the year’s goals, and it may include losing weight, especially after the holidays, increasing revenue, improving health or career, etc. While that is important, I invite you to be more specific and see the numbers and the feelings you will have when you get there. Don’t get lost on the "hows" for now. We sometimes develop “paralysis by analysis” when we are overwhelmed and find ourselves with a big task in front of us. But right now, for this exercise do not worry about that. Little by little, you will find information or walk the steps that will take you there. For now, just concentrate on that goal. Writing it down or making a drawing really helps to make that connection in your brain. Make it also something realistic, but measure it by your own standards. Don’t limit yourself by other people’s standards, but make sure that you believe that it is possible. And lastly, make sure that it is for the well-being of yourself, your family, or community. I do believe that life has a way to help people looking to help others or to improve their environment.

Once you have those main goals, develop a plan of action. How long will it take you? What are the milestones? In order to fulfill your goal, how does the progress look like in March, or September? Do you need help? Who has the knowledge to help you?

I am continuously working on my list of goals and planning. There is so much going on around us right now, but I am trying to concentrate on the things that I can actually control and influence. That gives me peace, helps me be productive and lays the foundation for the future months.

What are your goals this year? Do you have a big project on the horizon this summer? Whether you are planning a new chapter in life, or considering changes to your home, knowing what you want to accomplish can make the decisions ahead more meaningful.

At Unfolding Lines, we believe a great project starts with understanding your goals and the possibilities while developing a clear direction. Explore our Feasibility Studies and Development Map services to learn how we help turn ideas into informed architectural decisions.

Gracias!

Citlalli

And now let us welcome the new year,

Full of things that never were.

- Rainer Maria Rilke

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Citlalli is an architect and a mom who enjoys

finding the extraordinary around us and

understanding what makes each person thrive.

She believes that art, and good design should

be accessible, and her motivation is to help build

a better world for the next generations.

She has worked on residential and commercial

projects for over 20 years, and is the principal architect at Unfolding Lines Architecture in Los Angeles, California, aimed to thoughtful planning, flexible architectural services and client guidance.