How to Program Your Subconscious to Reach Your Goals
Today I have a story for you about words, beliefs, and the incredible power of the human mind. Now, before you roll your eyes at yet another motivational spiel, this one comes straight from the heart of America's favorite pastime—baseball. And trust me, it's a lesson worth keeping close.
What Are You Telling Yourself
Ever heard of Bill Buckner? If you're a baseball fan, that name might already conjure a range of emotions. For those who don’t know, Buckner was a talented baseball player, gracing the fields for teams like the Dodgers, Chicago Cubs, and the Boston Red Sox. My story today centers on an unforgettable moment from the 1986 World Series—a moment that encapsulates the profound influence our words can have on our lives.
Picture this: It's the 6th game of the World Series, and the Boston Red Sox are up against the New York Mets. The game has stretched into extra innings. We're in the 10th inning; the score is tied, and the Mets have a player on third base. Only 90 feet separate them from victory. Mookie Wilson steps up to bat, and Buckner, moved from outfield to first base, gets ready for what should be a routine out.
Wilson hits the ball—a mere dribbler up the first baseline. Simple, right? Yet in that high-stakes moment, the unthinkable happens: the ball rolls right between Buckner's legs. The Mets win the game, and the Red Sox lose the World Series.
Why am I telling you this? Because just weeks earlier, Buckner had an interview where he shared his biggest fear. He detailed how his "nightmare" would be letting the winning run score on a ground ball through his legs. These weren't just throwaway words; they were drenched in fear and vivid detail.
Think about this: Buckner didn't just predict a loss. He narrated it with such clarity that it was like he had scripted the moment. And in doing so, he might have unwittingly planted the seed in his subconscious, giving it the power to manifest in reality.
Language is powerful
Language is powerful. What we say and think shapes our experiences more than we realize. Our brains constantly listen to us, absorbing our words, beliefs, and even our fleeting thoughts. When Buckner spoke about his nightmare scenario, he spoke it into existence, giving it life.
Perhaps you might be thinking, "Kim, come on. People say stuff all the time. It doesn't always mean anything." But that's the point. Words aren't just harmless strings of sounds; they have the power to shape reality. The seeds of our thoughts start with our choice of words.
This reminds me of another well-known story: Jim Carrey writing himself a check for $10 million. At the time, Carrey was a struggling actor. Yet, he wrote himself a check for acting services rendered, dated it Thanksgiving 1995, and carried it in his wallet. It deteriorated over time, but just before Thanksgiving 1995, Carrey learned he would earn $10 million for his role in "Dumb and Dumber." He didn’t just wish upon a star; he acted and aligned his beliefs with his goals.
From Thought to Reality
This brings me to an essential truth: Our brains cannot distinguish between what is real and what is imagined. When you repeatedly tell your mind something, it takes it as a command to turn that thought into reality.
So, how do we harness this power for good? Here’s a seven-step process to make your goals and dreams inevitable:
Decide precisely what you want and write it down. This crystallizes your goal and kickstarts your brain.
Place your goal where you'll see it daily. Vision boards, sticky notes, bathroom mirrors—find your trigger.
Set a deadline. Break large goals into manageable parts.
Make a list of actions. Plan your work and work your plan.
Identify limitations. Recognize both external and internal obstacles.
Take daily action. Even one small step every day builds momentum and belief.
Practice daily gratitude. Assume the feeling of your goal realized. Gratitude bridges the gap between where you are and where you want to be.
We can't control every twist and turn life throws at us, but we can control our words and our beliefs. Remember, vague requests get vague results. Be specific, be intentional, and most importantly, be kind with your language, especially when it's about your capabilities and dreams.
Until next time, keep those dreams clear and your language positive. Words have power. Use them wisely.