One of the simplest, yet most powerful plant-related approaches, is the Plant Interaction Program. This program embraces the familiar concept that big things can have small beginnings. Through this step-by-step program a lone plant can become a gateway to complete success. By focusing your attention on a plant, you can access the resources required to achieve your highest goals.

The effectiveness of this program seems to lie primarily in its capacity to generate a highly motivated state with strong expectations of success. Developed in the college setting for instructional enrichment, the program seems to actually shape the mind for success. It is applicable to a wide range of personal goals, from the simplest to the most complex, but for only one goal at a time. It can be practiced in almost any setting where a plant is available for viewing.Here's the program.

Step 1. Goal Statement
Formulate a specific personal goal and affirm your intent to achieve it in clear, positive terms. For instance, the affirmation, I will succeed, is far more powerful than the affirmation, I will not fail.

Step 2. Observation
Select a plant that seems relevant to your stated goal and center your attention on it. Note the plant's distinguishing characteristics, such as texture, size, and color. Remind yourself that plants, life, and people, are unique, with no two being exactly alike.

Step 3. Plant Visualization
Close your eyes and visualize the plant in as much detail as possible. As you build a mental image of the plant with its unique features, sense your connection to it as a magnificent creation.

Step 4. Goal Visualization
Shift your attention from the plant to your goal. Again, state your goal and visualize yourself having achieved it. If, for instance, your goal is career-related, picture yourself in a career situation that's consistent with your stated goal. Think of your visualized goal as a future reality poised for fulfillment.

Step 5. Plant-goal Connection
Return your focus to the plant and think of it as nature's symbol of your success in achieving your goal. Let the reality of the tangible plant represent the reality of your future success. Take plenty of time to form a firm plant-goal connection.

Step 6. Concluding Affirmation
Conclude with the simple affirmation, "Success is my destiny." You can use this affirmation as a cue at any time to re-activate in an instant the full effects of this program.

For multiple goals, repeat the program for each goal. This program is especially effective when practiced in the early morning hours. It's a good way to start your day!

Excerpted from Connecting to the Power of Nature, by Joe H. Slate