Kick Smart Workshop? integrates some of the latest techniques in this arena into its program ? both via specific Visualization and Goal Setting exercises, but by it's over all approach to teaching in its curriculum delivery and conversation with the children during class time.

We focus on three primary areas with our Champions: Home & Family; School and Martial Arts

Why Visualization Works

1) Visualization enhances confidence

Research in the field of positive psychology shows that simply thinking about an event makes it seem more likely that it will actually happen. As you think about an event, you begin to construct mental scenarios of how it might occur, and even more importantly, how you might *make* it happen. The result is often greater confidence, and self-improvement occurs via a "self-fulfilling prophecy." The psychological process is simple:

Visualization -> Confidence --> Action --> Results --> Success

2) Visualization boosts motivation

Visualization boosts motivation as well as confidence, making self-help and self-improvement more effective. As your dreams for the future seem more likely, you become more motivated to initiate and sustain action.

Visualizing your future also makes you aware of the gap between where you are now, and where you want to be. The result is more motivation for self-improvement, as you strive to close the gap between your future ambitions and your current reality.

3) Visualizing is a form of practice

This is the most important reason that visualization enhances success, but the one most often overlooked in self-help and self-improvement books. Like any kind of practice, visualizing a behavior makes you more skilled and successful when it comes time to actually engage in that behavior.

Here are some ways you can help your child use this powerful tool.

? Help your child to come up with a specific goal they would like to accomplish. Make sure it is something they really want and not something that just sounds good.

? Have your child write down the goal with as many details as possible, the more the better.

? Help your child find pictures in magazines or objects that represent the goal to him or her, put them in a place where your child can see them easily, or have them use a binder or a scrapbook where they can paste pictures from magazines or photographs.

? Have them picture in their mind what it would be like if their goal were to happen. Have them go to a quiet place where they can close their eyes and daydream about having their chosen goal. First thing in the morning and before they go to sleep at night are the best times as that is when the subconscious mind is most accepting and relaxed. Never force them to do this for a specific amount of time the most important thing is to keep it simple and fun.

? Have them focus on their goal as much as possible by keeping a clear picture in their mind.

? Keep it in the family. Tell your child this is a special secret and he can tell other people when he reaches his goal but until then it should remain in the family. Other people may say that he is being silly and cause him to doubt the process.

? Ask your child what it would be like when the goal actually happened. How would they feel, happy, excited? Whichever emotion they can come up with, have them act it out like it was a reality. Emotion is very powerful in the visualization process.

? Finally get the whole family involved in your child's goal. Talk about it as if it has already happened. If the goal is too large have your child break it into mini goals - each mini goal he reaches will bring him closer to the ultimate goal. Celebrate each success as your child reaches a goal by having a special family celebration.

Article courtesy of Martin H. Doherty from Kick Smart Workshop