I’m purposely being dramatic, using the shock of lying to get your attention. But also I am being literally truthful because I’m about to advocate creating illusions.

I’m suggesting you use the power of your imagination, your talent for visualization, to create false memories when and only when those “memories” will serve you.

I frequently play racquetball and playing well draws on a wonderful blend of mind and body skills. Astounding as it may seem, I’ve actually been known to miss a shot, to hit into the ground, to leave the ball up, to not nail the corner.

BUT when I miss a shot, I IMMEDIATELY replay it in my mind the way I wanted it to be. I instantly erase the old memory of “failure” and replace it with a stored-up memory of when I’ve hit that shot perfectly. In a sense of the word, I cheerfully “lie” to myself. Or more precisely, my mind refocuses my body on success, on what it wants, on the desired outcome versus what it does not want.

I’ve read of quarterbacks who walk onto the field believing that they are the best, that victory is theirs for the taking, that as long as they persevere and make a valiant effort they inevitably will prevail. Ask them on Monday morning if they believe that to be the literal truth and most will sheepishly explain, no, probably not. BUT believing it in the moment is key to them summoning their best, to calling forth the absolute most their hearts and sinew can deliver.

Visualize the success you desire, see yourself in your mind’s eye behaving and acting in the ways that will lead you forward. Delete old memories of failure, over-write those tapes with the new memories you have created of your best self to be. Become comfortable with this new, successful you. Then go forth and create in the rest of the world what you’ve already created in your mind.

Closing quotes:

“To visualize is to see what is not there, what is not real—a dream. To visualize is, in fact, to make visual lies. Visual lies, however, have a way of coming true.” — Peter McWilliams, author of “Life 101”

“Visualize this thing that you want, see it, feel it, believe in it. Make your mental blueprint, and begin to build.” — Robert Collier, author of “Riches Within Your Reach” (and my grandfather)

“I would visualize things coming to me. It would just make me feel better. Visualization works if you work hard. That’s the thing. You can’t just visualize and go eat a sandwich.” — Jim Carrey, actor

“Losers visualize the penalties of failure. Winners visualize the rewards of success.” — Unknown