Imagination

Imagination is the ability to create images, scenarios, possibilities, or meanings that are not directly present in the senses.

Definition

Imagination supports creativity, planning, empathy, anticipating consequences and solving problems. It can also increase anxiety when it creates catastrophic scenarios without contact with facts. Mature use of imagination requires switching between possibilities and reality testing.

Key ideas

Missing key ideas.

Practice and life

When you are afraid, write down two imaginary scenarios: catastrophic and realistic. Then write down what facts distinguish one from the other.

Common misunderstanding

It is a mistake to treat imagination as proof that something will happen. It is also a mistake to suppress it instead of giving it form and direction.

Questions for self-reflection

No questions for self-reflection.

Sources

No sources.