Spend the next few moments imagining your ideal future, perhaps thinking about your perfect partner or your dream job.

Go.

Thanks.

Unfortunately, you just decreased the chances of making your dream come true.

Researchers of the University of Pennslyvania have discovered that this kind of visualization makes you think that life would be wonderful.

And so as obstacles come along, you quickly become discouraged.

Instead, it's much better to visualize what you need to do in order to achieve your goal.

So if, for example, you're studying for an exam, visualize yourself revising, going to the library, or asking questions in class.

And so next time you want to achieve a goal, visualize the process and not your dream future.