Creating mental pictures
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We are living in an age where the ability to take pictures is at our fingertips, literally. The abiliity to see them is instantaneous. I find I spend more time trying to take pictures (creating the right lighting, the best angle, reviewing and retaking if not just right) that I miss the simplicity of living in the moment.
I want to be someone who takes more Mental Pictures*. What are mental pictures? It requires you to live in the present, sculting and sketching out memories in the brain to refer to them later.
One might question, "Can't you look at a picture you took and use that as a reference point for sculpting a mental picture?" Technically yes, but it will lack the emotional component that connects the brain to the heart.
Heres why...
Think of every memory as a carved out sketch in your brain. The memories that have a strong emotional connection create a deeper carving. When the brain shares an etched out carving with the heart, you're able to recall the good feelings brought forth by the memory, leading to sensations of JOY.
I'm not suggesting not to take pictures of moments that bring JOY. Do it! But next time, do it without worrying if the lighting was just right or worrying if your eyes were closed. Instead, spend your time diving into the moment, allowing your brain and heart connection to live in the present, sculpting and sketching out mental pictures. Then the next time you need a dose of JOY, pull from that mental picture and embrace it.
*Mental Pictures is something Brene Brown talks about in her book The Gifts of Imperfection. If you haven't heard of her, you're missing out. She speaks a lot about finding braveness through vulnerability - doesn't that sound liberating?
