Guided Visualisation – Primacy Bias

I can guide you through a visualization exercise focused on primacy bias. Primacy bias is the tendency for people to remember information or experiences that occur first more vividly than those that come later. This exercise will help you explore and understand this cognitive bias. Find a comfortable and quiet place where you can relax without distractions. When you're ready, let's begin:

1. Close your eyes, take a deep breath, and exhale slowly. Allow yourself to settle into a state of deep relaxation.
2. Imagine that you are standing at the entrance of a beautiful garden. Visualize the garden's entrance vividly in your mind. Take a moment to observe the details of the entrance—notice the colors, the textures, and any sounds you might hear.
3. As you step through the entrance, you find yourself surrounded by an array of vibrant flowers, tall trees, and the gentle sound of a nearby stream. Take a moment to immerse yourself in the beauty of this garden. Feel the warmth of the sun on your skin and the softness of the grass beneath your feet.
4. As you explore the garden, you come across a series of signposts. Each signpost represents a different experience or information. These signposts are arranged in a sequential order, starting from the first one you encounter on your left.
5. Approach the first signpost and observe it closely. This signpost represents the first piece of information or experience that you encountered regarding a particular subject. Pay attention to any details or imagery associated with this signpost.
6. Take a moment to reflect on the primacy bias. Recognize that the information or experience represented by this first signpost tends to have a stronger impact on your memory and perception compared to the subsequent ones.
7. Now, gradually move along the path and approach the subsequent signposts one by one, representing additional information or experiences. Take your time at each signpost and notice any differences in your emotional response or level of attention as you progress through the sequence.
8. Reflect on how your perception and memory might have been influenced by the primacy bias. Notice any patterns or shifts in your awareness as you encounter each new signpost.
9. As you reach the end of the signpost sequence, take a moment to sit on a nearby bench and observe the garden as a whole. Reflect on the importance of recognizing and acknowledging the primacy bias in your everyday life.
10. When you're ready, begin to bring your awareness back to the present moment. Wiggle your fingers and toes, take a deep breath, and slowly open your eyes.

Take a few moments to reflect on your experience. Consider any insights or observations you gained about primacy bias and how it may impact your perception and memory.