Regarding visualizing what you want I think clarity is important. Then you know what you want and it helps you know if you are on track to achieve it. The main thing you need is action; visualizing it isn't enough. You need to get out there and GO MAKE IT HAPPEN! I fear that in spiritual worlds there is too much talk on "manifesting" simply by creating the vision or thinking about it or "setting an intention." The vision is worthless without appropriate action. Clearly knowing your goals helps you take appropriate action.
Kick some ass!
Brendan
Note: This excerpt was from an email exchange with a student. This was part of my reply to her.