Goal setting

Using mind movies as a goal-setting method

Written by Katherine Nicholls

Published 26th April 2016

There are countless goal-setting methods available, from SMART goals and vision boards to journalling and action plans. Each offers something valuable, and the best approach is often the one that helps you stay connected to what you're working towards.

One method that some people find particularly motivating is creating a mind movie.

What is a mind movie?

A mind movie is a modern take on the traditional vision board. Instead of collecting photographs and inspirational quotes on a board, you create a short digital video using meaningful images, words, music and affirmations that reflect the life you're working towards.

For some people, watching this visual reminder regularly can help them reconnect with their goals and maintain motivation, particularly when life becomes busy or progress feels slow.

It might include images of places you'd like to visit, the career you're working towards, the lifestyle you hope to create or the relationships you want to nurture. Alongside these images, you might include encouraging words, meaningful quotations or positive affirmations, all set to music that inspires you.

Unlike a traditional vision board that's often displayed on a wall, a mind movie can be watched whenever you need a reminder of where you're heading.

Why visualisation is an effective goal-setting method

One of the reasons visualisation has become such a popular goal-setting method is that it encourages us to imagine what success might look and feel like. Rather than focusing solely on the end result, it invites us to connect emotionally with the future we're working towards.

You might imagine yourself feeling calm as you start a new role, confident as you launch a business or energised as you complete a personal challenge.

When we spend time reflecting on the future we want to create, our goals can begin to feel more tangible and meaningful.

It's important to remember, however, that visualisation works best when it's paired with action. Simply imagining success isn't enough on its own, but it can be a powerful way of strengthening motivation alongside practical planning and consistent effort.

How to create a meaningful mind movie

One of the strengths of a mind movie is that it can be completely personal.

You might choose to create one that focuses on:

your career or business
health and wellbeing
relationships
confidence and personal growth
financial goals
travel and adventure
creating a better work-life balance

Whatever your focus, try to include images and messages that genuinely resonate with you rather than what you think success should look like. The most effective goals are often those that reflect your own values, not someone else's expectations.

All you'll need is access to a camera for self-recording, or a video hosting platform like YouTube to take inspiration clips from. You then collect these in one place, and perhaps overlay it with music that resonates. In truth - however you choose to create it, as long as what you see feels like a representation of who you want to be/what you want your life to be like, it can be effective for you.

What goal-setting coaches see in practice

Many people choose to create more than one mind movie, each focusing on a different area of life. For example, you might have one centred on your professional ambitions and another that reflects your personal life or wellbeing.

Watching them regularly can become a simple reminder of what's important to you and why those goals matter.

Some people like to watch their mind movie first thing in the morning to begin the day with intention, while others find it helpful to revisit it in the evening as an opportunity to reflect on the progress they've made. There isn't a right or wrong approach. The key is finding a routine that supports your motivation without becoming another task on your to-do list.

The psychological impact of your goals feeling real

One of the reasons goal-setting methods like mind movies can be so powerful is that they encourage us to engage more than just our logical thinking. As you watch your mind movie, take a moment to imagine yourself already moving towards those goals.

Ask yourself:

How would achieving this goal make me feel?
What would be different in my everyday life?
Who would I become as I worked towards it?
What small action could I take today?

The more clearly you can picture your future, the easier it can become to identify the next practical step.

Finding the goal-setting methods that work for you

There isn't a single goal-setting method that's right for everyone. Some people thrive with written plans and detailed action steps. Others prefer visual tools, regular goal-focused coaching conversations or reflective journalling.

Often, the most effective approach is a combination of methods that helps you stay focused, motivated and accountable.

If you're curious about mind movies, why not experiment with creating one of your own?

The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Life Coach Directory. Articles are reviewed by our editorial team and offer professionals a space to share their ideas with respect and care.