The Choice Point: The Scientifically Proven Method to Push Past Mental Walls and Achieve Your Goals

Cognitive therapist Grover and psychologist Rhodes aim to help readers harness “multisensory imagery” to achieve their goals in this smart debut. The authors focus on “choice points” at which one can choose “quick fix” gratification or a long-term goal, and show how to use “Functional Imagery Training” to opt for the latter. Using journaling prompts, the authors guide readers through a FIT program, starting with formulating goals and then making plans to achieve them (“What will you need to change about your story to get closer to your dream?”). Next, readers should draw on multisensory imagery to “visualize” steps, a strategy the authors claim is powerful because “when you engage your senses in your imagination, your body reacts with a physiological response that is close to the real deal.” To that end, they explain how to sharpen auditory, visual, and even olfactory senses (“find an odor that is noticeable, powerful, and pleasurable” and clock one’s mood and surroundings; later, use the “saved mental picture” to recreate the smell). The authors draw on solid scientific research and make a strong case that “imagery evokes emotion, and emotion shapes behavior more than talking about changing behavior.” Readers looking to get off the couch and make some changes will benefit. (June)