According to Maltz, every individual has a mental blueprint or self-image. This self-image dictates the boundaries of what we can achieve. Like a thermostat, if our performance or results deviate too far from this self-image (either above or below), our internal 'guidance system' works to bring us back in line with it. A negative or limited self-image can therefore sabotage success, while a positive, expansive self-image can propel us towards our goals.

Maltz proposed that we all possess an internal 'Creative Mechanism' or 'Success Mechanism.' This goal-striving servomechanism works automatically and impersonally to achieve goals that we feed into it, much like a torpedo homes in on a target. It operates by trial and error, correcting course based on negative feedback until the goal is reached. However, if we consistently feed this mechanism negative goals (born from fear, anxiety, or a poor self-image), it functions as a 'Failure Mechanism,' efficiently guiding us towards undesired outcomes.

Understanding which mechanism you are predominantly activating is crucial. Are you focusing on what you want (success) or what you fear (failure)?

A cornerstone of Psycho-Cybernetics is the power of imagination and mental rehearsal. Maltz emphasized that our nervous system cannot tell the difference between a vividly imagined experience and an actual experience. By repeatedly and vividly imagining ourselves performing successfully, feeling confident, and achieving our goals, we can 'program' our self-image and Success Mechanism for positive outcomes. This is similar to athletes mentally rehearsing their performance before an event.

Consider these reflection points:

• Do you consciously use mental imagery to prepare for important tasks or goals?
• When you visualize, do you focus on the successful outcome and the feelings associated with it?

Many of us operate under the 'hypnosis' of negative, self-limiting beliefs acquired from past experiences or messages from others ('I'm not good enough,' 'I always fail,' 'I'm not smart enough'). Psycho-Cybernetics teaches that we can 'dehypnotize' ourselves from these false beliefs by consciously challenging them, creating new, positive affirmations, and acting 'as if' we are already the person we wish to become. This helps to build a new, more empowering self-image.

This PsycheMap exploration guides you through reflective questions inspired by Maltz's work. By considering your current self-image, your reactions to success and failure, and your use of mental imagery, you can gain insights into your own 'mental blueprint.' While an interactive quiz feature for this is planned, the blog and reflection questions serve as a starting point. Future AI tools may help identify patterns in your reflections and suggest personalized strategies for strengthening your success mechanism.