That's interesting. I think you're still thinking of "imagining" as primarily an emotional activity, which would explain why it drains the energy.

I think it's pretty obvious and really undebatable, if you aren't clear about your goal, you're not likely to obtain it.

This is the whole underlying rationale for clear, definable steps toward a clear definable goal.

#1: "I'd like to weigh less."

#2: My aim is to lose 15 pounds by April 18, losing an average of 5 pounds per month. I will eat such and such foods, at such and such times, in such and such amounts. Observing potential obstacles (which means I'm also implicitly observing myself going through this successfully), I see the need to (a) plan meals ahead of time; (b) make a careful shopping list so I only buy certain foods and only need to shop 2x a week); decide on a variety of foods but still within a limited range so I don't get overwhelmed; and (c) make sure I don't have overly tempting foods in my home as well as plan when going out to eat with friends

In #2, I've implicitly "visualized" the whole process from beginning to end AND I've accounted for potential obstacles.

If my energy is somehow drained, I know I need an "accountability buddy," - i can arrange to have my wife or friends or some "paid" coach online for this.

As far as I'm aware, there is much research showing self-imposed deadlines can - FOR SOME - be helpful.

The thing is, and I'm sure you've seen this as a coach, what works beautifully for one leads to disaster for another. And there also has to be flexibility on the way to change modes. Maybe the deadline would have felt pressured at first, but toward the end it's needed.

By the way, I've had a constantly changing deadline all through the past year to get an online course all set to go public. I'm meeting with my marketing expert in a few hours. Did I 'fail" because I changed the deadline?

No. If I hadn't made these self appointed deadlines, I would have taken SO much longer.

But again, it's different for each person.