Hey there, goal-getters! Ready to dive into a game-changing approach to achieving your dreams? Today, we’re exploring the fascinating world of backward goal-setting, as inspired by the timeless insights of Maxwell Maltz, MD, in his groundbreaking book “Psycho-Cybernetics.” So, grab a seat, a cup of your favorite brew, and let’s embark on a journey that could reshape the way you pursue success.

The Foundation of Psycho-Cybernetics: Before we leap into the transformative technique of backward goal-setting, let’s take a quick look at the foundation laid down by Maxwell Maltz. Maltz, a renowned plastic surgeon and behavioral scientist, introduced the concept of self-image as the cornerstone of success. He believed that our actions and behaviors are a direct reflection of how we perceive ourselves. Enter “Psycho-Cybernetics,” a concept that merges psychology and cybernetics to explore how we can recalibrate our self-image to drive success.

What is Backward Goal-Setting? Now, let’s shine the spotlight on the star of the show: backward goal-setting. This approach flips traditional goal-setting on its head. Instead of focusing solely on the end goal, you start by vividly imagining your life as if you’ve already achieved it. Picture the grandeur of your success, savor the emotions that come with it, and embrace the reality of being at your pinnacle. Once you’ve etched this mental image, you work backward to identify the steps that led you there.

The Power of Visualization: Maltz believed that our brains cannot distinguish between vividly imagined experiences and real ones. This forms the foundation of backward goal-setting. By immersing yourself in the future you desire, your subconscious mind begins to accept it as the norm. The path to success becomes clearer as your mind automatically seeks out ways to bridge the gap between your current reality and your envisioned triumph.

Applying Backward Goal-Setting in Your Life: Ready to harness the might of backward goal-setting? Let’s break it down into practical steps:

1. Define Your Ultimate Success: Envision the peak of your achievements in detail. Feel the emotions, see the surroundings, and immerse yourself in your future triumph.
2. Work Backward: Now that your future is crystal clear, outline the milestones that would have led to your success. These milestones become your roadmap.
3. Set S.M.A.R.T. Goals: Transform these milestones into Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound goals. These smaller goals now serve as your action plan.
4. Monitor and Adjust: Just like a cybernetic system, regularly monitor your progress and make adjustments as needed. Stay flexible, adapting your approach while keeping your ultimate vision intact.

The Joey Bonfiglio Twist: You know me, I love putting a twist on things. Here’s how you can Joey-fy this technique:

1. Create a Vision Board: Channel your inner artist and craft a vision board filled with images, quotes, and representations of your success. Place it somewhere prominent to keep your vision alive. In 2019 I mocked up a book cover for the “future book” I wanted to write, then taped it to my bathroom mirror. This made it seem real and provided the motivation to take steps in the direction of that goal, while also feeling like I was already a best-selling author. Since then, I not only wrote my first book, How To Build A Level Up Mindset: Cheat Codes For Success, Health and Happiness but also co-authored another, Winner’s Mindset: Peak Performance Strategies for Success. It all started with a simple vision.
2. Positive Affirmations: Fuel your subconscious with positivity by creating and reciting personalized affirmations that reinforce your new self-image. For me, I like to write my affirmations down. I used to write down them on a white piece of paper along with a short list of goals/vision and the two action steps I was going to take that day in the direction of any of my goals. Over time I created my own Daily Mindset Pocket Planner (PDF) to make it more convenient to plan and track my steps and progress and also share with others on their journey.
3. Share the Journey: Let your inner circle in on your backward goal-setting journey. Their support and encouragement can be a powerful motivator.

And there you have it, my fellow dream chaser—backward goal-setting through the lens of Maxwell Maltz’s “Psycho-Cybernetics.” Remember, success isn’t just about setting goals; it’s about reprogramming your self-image and unleashing the potential within. So, take a leap of faith, start at the end, and watch the magic unfold as you reshape your destiny. Here’s to achieving the extraordinary, one backward step at a time!

Obsessed with your goals and dreams,