Sorry to read of another fine aircraft in a mishap, I hope its not terminal damage.
Dunno about you guys but I was taught to touch the req'd lever, visually confirm it was the right one, say it out loud and then move the lever.
As in, "Undercarriage (or Flaps as applicable), Identified and retract (or extended as applicable)
When I did this on a recent night VFR check, the senior instructor, who I'd not flown with before, commented on how he doesn't see/hear that action very often anymore but thought it should be taught.