16 Comments
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Mary Buri's avatar

Great reminders thank you (reading this during a writing block, don't be mad)

Sarah Fay, PhD's avatar

Perfect reading for you.

Maureen Paschal's avatar

I'm an expert at visualizing the worst-case scenario. I've got that habit down pat.

Backroad Portfolio's avatar

Wow, this really sticks with me: "But a recent study found that people who succeed in achieving their goals actually visualized the worst-case scenario of what would happen if they didn’t achieve their goal."

Sarah Fay, PhD's avatar

It's striking, isn't it? Changed my world. It works so well because all that positive visualization never really took root in me.

Jeanine Kitchel's avatar

This made me laugh out loud, Sarah, "But a recent study found that people who succeed in achieving their goals actually visualized the worst-case scenario of what would happen if they didn’t achieve their goal." I think this is what my mom used to call using reverse psychology. When one of we siblings was being ornery or whiney, she said she would use reverse psychology on us. I don't quite remember how she used it or why it worked, but I love the term to this day. Your post brought back that happy funny reminder.

Sarah Fay, PhD's avatar

It works soooo well. I credit all my success to scaring myself by thinking about what will happen if I don't! It is funny.

Jeanine Kitchel's avatar

That’s wild! I’m too scared to try it. For me, the ‘what if’ syndrome ): But it certainly can be used as an energizer!

Gail Post, Ph.D.'s avatar

Thanks for the great advice. You emphasize Notes several times and wondering how necessary you think it is to be there. I scan Notes and occasionally find a new writer I like or read an interesting article, but otherwise find Notes a burden... social media with lousy algorithms. So just checking on your thoughts about continued growth on Substack without making Notes such an essential part of one's work.

Wendy Hawkes's avatar

Always up for a good pep talk. Especially ones with actionable advice. This is a great way to start a day. Thanks!

Serena Mira Asta's avatar

Thanks, Sarah! The Notes Boost Challenge link is broken, BTW…

Jennifer Granville's avatar

I love this...it felt fresh and original and really,, really helpful.

Istiaq Mian, MD's avatar

Sarah you're awesome! (and the best!).

Great pep talk, you remind me so much of the counselor we had at our med school :)

Sara Weir's avatar

Alright - this gave me a good push in the right direction. Going to write out what success looks like then visualize worst case scenario.

Sheena Billett's avatar

Thanks for the encouragement. I've not come across reverse visualisation before but it's a great motivator.