Caitlin Clark and 10 Minutes that Changed a Life

I recently spoke to a group of 8th graders about visualizing and believing in their dreams. I began with a story that’s in the news these days...

When Basketball Phenom Caitlin Clark was in second grade, she wrote that she wanted to be in the WNBA. But she didn’t stop there. She daydreamed about it. She visualized. She talked as if. She read stories about the lifestyle, and she saw herself in them. Fifteen years later she was the #1 WNBA pick.

I shared that if we want to change our circumstances and move toward our future success, we must? choose today to focus on thoughts and dreams that feel good. I taught them how to write them in past tense, draw them, imagine them, share them and savor them. Then I coached them to tell stories of what their lives are like now that their dreams have come true. And we played the “Congratulations Game.”

Imagination is more important than knowledge, as Einstein said. It’s also more powerful than bank balances or diagnoses or report cards or test scores or past mistakes. Visualization - thinking it until you feel it - is the key to opening every door. It is our prescription for finding and following our purpose and passion.?

My presentation to the students lasted only 10 minutes out of their hour-long class. When I was finished, I invited them to write their dreams on a note card. Every student did. At the end of the class, a beautiful young girl walked up and handed me a folded sheet of paper. Here’s what it said:?

“Ms. Mueller, just knowing you for one hour, you have inspired me. When I reach my goals and dreams in the future, you will be hearing your name. When I’m famous and on TV, you will hear the story that started today. Thank you so much.”?

• Ashley N.?

Ten minutes. Young people today want guidance. It’s not enough to put up a poster that encourages them to dream. We must teach them how. In just a few hours we can teach them the process and the power of Visualization - a gift they will use their entire lives.??

Note: The 8 to Great K-12 Curriculum teaches Visualization using dozens of inspiring and interactive activities, cartoons, videos and songs. For more information on how you can bring this 8-step process to your school classroom, youth group, or living room, email us at [email protected] or fill out the form on our website: www.8togreat.com.?

MK Mueller is the author of five books, and has certified over 3800 business leaders and educators to become Life Coaches in the 8 to Great process. For more information or to bring MK to speak to your group, email [email protected] or text 402-212-3033.