Often the image we carry of ourselves greatly determines the outcome of our endeavors. If we think of ourselves as failures, we fail. When we visualize ourselves as friendly and helpful, we act in a friendly and helpful manner. If you have an ongoing conflict with someone at home, at work, or among your social acquaintances, spend five minutes each morning and evening visualizing yourself speaking gently and reasonably with that person. Even practice saying what you want to say in terms that are not confrontational, rather than abusive or insulting. In addition, visualize your antagonists agreeing with you; see them smile at what you say and nod their heads. Visualize yourself dealing with them in a friendly manner, no matter how much you resist doing so. Then carry these images with you throughout the day.

— Tom Cowan in The Way of the Saints