Trick Your Monkey Brain Into Being Motivated Using Imagination

Let’s face it: our brains aren’t exactly designed for modern-day challenges. Deep down, we’re still running on “monkey brain” programming—wired for survival, not thriving. That part of our brain craves instant gratification and avoids anything uncomfortable, even if it’s good for us. The trick? Outsmart it. And guess what? Your imagination is the perfect tool for the job.

Why Motivation Feels Hard Sometimes

Your monkey brain loves comfort. It wants the banana now, not the reward six months from now. So when you’re trying to tackle a long-term goal—whether it’s building your creative business, finishing a project, or getting in shape—it’s like wrestling a toddler who just wants to nap.

But here’s the good news: your monkey brain is also ridiculously easy to trick. All it takes is a bit of mental sleight of hand, and imagination is the magic wand.

The Imagination Hack: Why It Works

Your brain doesn’t always know the difference between reality and a vivid thought. That’s why imagining biting into a lemon can make your mouth water or picturing yourself tripping on stage can make your heart race.

By vividly imagining success or the pleasure of reaching your goal, you can bypass your monkey brain’s resistance. It stops focusing on the discomfort of effort and starts craving the reward.

How to Use Imagination to Get Motivated

1. Picture the End Goal in Detail
   Your monkey brain loves rewards it can see, smell, or feel. So make it tangible.
   • If you’re trying to sell more art, picture the moment someone buys your favourite piece and gushes about how much they love it. Hear their words, see their smile, and feel that glow of pride.
   • If it’s about exercising, imagine how strong and energized you’ll feel after. Picture yourself conquering a hill on your bike, the wind rushing past you.
2. Pair Affirmations with Imagination
   Here’s the thing about affirmations: they only work if you feel them. Saying “I am confident and capable” without any belief behind it is like mumbling a spell without the magic.The trick? Use your imagination to pretend you already believe it. Don’t stop to assess whether it’s true—your monkey brain is too literal for that. If you pause and think, “Wait, am I really confident?” it breaks the emotional flow. Instead, imagine what it would feel like if it were 100% true.Picture yourself walking into a room with confidence, shoulders back, smile beaming. Feel that sense of capability like it’s already part of who you are. That emotional surge is what rewires your brain and starts to make the affirmation real.
3. Create a Movie in Your Mind
   Visualize the whole process, from start to finish, like a mini mental movie. For example:
   • You’re at your market stall, setting up. Your booth looks incredible. People are stopping by, complimenting your work. Someone hands you cash for a piece you’re proud of, and you celebrate with a treat after.
     This isn’t just daydreaming—it’s priming your brain to associate effort with reward.
4. Focus on the Small Wins
   The monkey brain loves quick wins. Instead of imagining the massive goal (which can feel overwhelming), picture the small victories along the way:
   • Completing one piece of art.
   • Receiving a compliment on your progress.
   • Crossing a task off your to-do list.
     Small wins keep your brain hooked.
5. Make the Process Fun
   Trick your monkey brain by imagining the process as enjoyable instead of grueling:
   • Turn your workspace into a creative haven—visualize yourself vibing to your favorite playlist while crafting.
   • Picture yourself laughing at little mishaps and feeling proud of trying something new.
     Fun = less resistance.
6. Visualize Overcoming Obstacles
   Your monkey brain loves to panic at the first sign of difficulty. So, imagine yourself handling challenges like a pro:
   • See yourself calmly solving a problem at your market stall or turning a “no” into a future opportunity.
   • Picture how good it feels to overcome setbacks instead of fearing them.

The Sciencey Bit

When you imagine success or pleasure, your brain releases dopamine—the feel-good chemical that boosts motivation. This gives you a taste of the reward before you’ve even done the work, making it easier to start.

Even better, pairing affirmations with imagination doubles the impact. You’re not just repeating words—you’re creating a sensory experience that your brain latches onto. Repeated visualization rewires your brain, building a mental shortcut between effort and reward, so over time, your monkey brain actually starts craving the work.

Final Thoughts

Your monkey brain might be stubborn, but it’s not unbeatable. By using your imagination to dangle the carrot and adding affirmations that you imagine you believe, you can trick it into wanting what’s good for you. Start small, get vivid, and make it fun.

So, what’s one thing you’ve been putting off? Close your eyes, imagine crushing it, and then take that first step. Your monkey brain will thank you later.