Today, I want to take you on a journey—a visualization or meditation, however you wish to see it. From a scientific perspective, this is known as a mental rehearsal technique—a powerful tool used in neurolinguistic programming (NLP) and emotional intelligence coaching to shift limiting beliefs and transform fear into courage.

Many people tell me, "I can't visualize." But here’s the truth—we are all master visualizers.

Think about it. We worry all the time.

We create worst-case scenarios in our minds:

• What if I fail?
• What if I make the wrong decisions?
• What if I don’t have enough money at the end of the month?
• What if I never find a partner?

We paint mental pictures of everything that could go wrong. But what if I told you that you could use the same power of your mind to change these images?

The Science Behind Visualization & Emotional Intelligence

If we look at epigenetics, a fascinating field of science, we learn that our thoughts and environment shape our reality. Dr. Bruce Lipton, a leading expert in this field, explains that our cells respond to the thoughts and emotions we feed them—meaning, we are not just victims of genetics but creators of our experiences.

You cannot change how you feel in the moment.

But you can change the mental image that keeps triggering those emotions.

For example:

Imagine someone standing in front of me and saying, "Nadja, I think you're really ugly."

If I already see myself as ugly, their words will confirm my fears, making me feel insecure or defensive.

But if I see myself as beautiful from the inside out, their opinion is just that—an opinion. It doesn’t shake my sense of self-worth.

This is the power of perception.

The way we see ourselves determines how we respond to life's challenges.

Breaking Free from the Past: Releasing Unresolved Emotions

Many of us carry unresolved emotions from childhood that shape our present reality.

For example, my biggest struggle used to be financial insecurity.

Growing up, I saw constant fighting over money. I was raised with the belief that "money doesn’t grow on trees." I had to work hard—picking strawberries, distributing newspapers in the freezing cold in the Netherlands—and at just 12 years old, I developed a bone disease from overworking.

So later in life, when I became an entrepreneur, I struggled to receive money. Even when I earned, I subconsciously sabotaged myself because deep down, I associated money with stress, struggle, and scarcity.

But here’s what I learned:

The challenges we face are meant to bring our hidden fears to the surface.

Once I identified my limiting beliefs around money, I was able to rewrite my story—through techniques like journaling, daily affirmations, and deep visualization.

Guided Visualization: Releasing Fear & Stepping Into Personal Power

Now, I want to guide you through a powerful exercise I use with my clients. This is based on Gestalt therapy and neurolinguistic programming (NLP), combined with emotional intelligence techniques.

But first, a gentle disclaimer:

If you are currently dealing with deep trauma, please ensure you have professional support before engaging in this exercise. Your emotional well-being comes first.

Before We Begin…

Take a moment to reflect:

• What is the biggest struggle you face when it comes to validation?
• Is it financial fear?
• Fear of never finding love?
• Fear of failing in your career or business?
• Fear of being judged for pursuing your dreams?

Set an intention for this practice. Be radically honest with yourself.

Step 1: Preparing Your Space

1. Find a quiet, comfortable space where you won’t be disturbed.
2. Put your phone on silent—trust me, you can survive without notifications for the next 10–15 minutes.
3. Sit down with your feet grounded on the floor.
4. Close your eyes and take deep breaths:
   • Inhale for 4 seconds
   • Hold for 4 seconds
   • Exhale for 4 seconds

Repeat until you feel calm and centered.

Step 2: Meeting Your Fear

1. Imagine yourself sitting in a beautiful, peaceful room.
   • What does the room look like?
   • What colors surround you?
   • What objects or decorations make you feel safe?
2. Now, visualize an empty chair in front of you.
3. Ask your biggest fear to step forward and take a seat.
   • What does it look like?
   • Does it appear as a person, a symbol, or just an energy?
4. Welcome it. Say thank you for showing up.

Step 3: Understanding the Message

Ask your fear:

• What do you want to tell me?
• Why have you been holding onto me?
• What do you need from me to let go?

Listen to the response—whether it comes as a voice, an image, or just a feeling.

Step 4: Releasing & Transforming Fear into Courage

1. Thank your fear for its protection but let it know: "I am no longer the same person. I am stronger now. I am safe."
2. Ask it to transform into courage—to help you move forward instead of holding you back.
3. Watch as it shrinks, dissolves, or transforms into light, strength, or resilience.
4. Notice how lighter you feel—like a weight has lifted.

Integrating This Practice Into Your Daily Life

As you move forward, you may feel a little strange—almost like something is missing. That’s because you've been carrying this fear for so long that living without it feels unfamiliar.

Give yourself grace, love, and patience as you step into this new version of yourself.

To reinforce this shift:

• Journal about what you experienced today.
• Write affirmations that remind you of your personal power.
• Whenever fear arises, talk to it—remind it that you are in control now.

Final Thoughts: You’ve Got This!

Thank you for joining me on this journey. If this exercise resonated with you, I invite you to become part of our Thrive with EQ Community—a safe space where heart-centered individuals come together to heal, grow, and support one another.

✔️ Join the Thrive with EQ Community to connect with like-minded people on a similar path.

✔️ Share your insights and experiences with others who truly understand.

✔️ Explore deeper healing techniques and gain access to exclusive resources and guidance.

You are not alone on this journey. Together, we rise. 💙

🔗 Join us here: Thrive with EQ Community

With love,

Nadja 💙