Do you get an idea you’re excited about, begin to head in the direction where it can be realized and then stop and stare at the challenges that arise? Are you focusing your mental powers on the dark cloud instead of the light at the end of the tunnel?

Every highly successful person has had as many challenges as you have. But here is the difference between successful people and you if you’re someone who wonders why you can’t seem to manifest your desires.

Successful people realize beforehand that there will be challenges; that it is a part of life and doing business but they are not fazed by them. They simply keep their eyes on the target and keep moving forward with their clearly defined goal until it is attained. They have an automated process that includes visualization exercises, whether it is intentional or not. Their minds repetitiously see pictures of their accomplishments!

“Unlucky” people who just can’t seem to get ahead usually have a different process. They get an idea and start taking actions that they hope will lead them to the goal.

One of the things that can be helpful in changing old patterns is to create images that stick in your mind and help you to think a little more about what you are doing.

Here’s one of the visualization techniques I use. When a thought comes to me, I create a visual image out of it that will stick with me. Here’s an example about the importance of planning that came to me as I was looking at this picture I received in an email. (Photographer was unidentified or I would give credit.)

Imagine two cars driving down the road side by side.

One driver has created a strong visual image of the destination. S/he has laid out a clearly defined plan of action and then takes the first step, staying focused on it until it is accomplished. The destination is always in the back of his/her mind and there is a feeling of control that is very comforting because s/he knows where s/he is headed. That driver has a pretty good idea about what is on the road ahead and has planned around information available at the time. That driver is aware of some bad weather but updates indicated that s/he could stay ahead of it and the risks were weighed. And of course, creative visualization is used to stay mentally focused on the destination ahead. A clear intention is made to arrive safely, along with an intention to tune in consciously to inner wisdom and guidance about the situation.

The other driver got an idea, said “Wow, I think that could work and I’m going to go talk my friend into helping me with this.” S/he jumps into the car and heads down the highway and out of town on what started as a beautiful sunny day full of high hopes and ideas.

Life is full of storms so when the big cloud rolls overhead, this driver stops in amazement and looks at it. The more s/he looks at it, the bigger and darker it looks. It becomes the focus and from there the question is asked, “What am I going to do now because those clouds look pretty big and dangerous?” So s/he stops dead in his/her tracks, stares at the ominous situation and wonders, “Why can’t I ever get ahead?”

I think it is helpful to get outside of yourself and observe your behavior at times. It can really answer a lot of your questions that are being asked in your head.