Maybe you’ve seen vision boards on the Oprah show or read about them in new age books. I’ll admit I knew about vision boards for years before I decided to make one; they seemed a bit too “woo-woo” to this data-driven professional!
About 7 years ago, however, I decided to give it a shot – and was instantly hooked. Now I make one every year as I refresh my vision and update my goals.
What Is A Vision Board?
A vision board is simply a physical representation – primarily in pictures – of your goals, values, dreams, and where you see yourself heading. It serves as a visual anchor, reminding you of your aspirations as you proceed through each day.
The photo to the right is a portion of a vision board I made a few years ago. You can create yours collage-style like this or in a more linear format, depending on your personal preferences.
How To Make A Vision Board
A quick Google Images search will lead you to countless vision board examples and techniques, but here’s what I recommend:
1. Clarify your goals for the year. Have your top-tier goals – along with your Vision, Mission, and Guiding Principles, if you’ve discerned them – in front of you as you craft your board.
2. Clip photos that represent your goals. Magazines, the internet, greeting cards, brochures – all fair game!
3. Adhere your photos onto poster board. Keep your goals present and your intention high as you do so.
That’s it! I now also put my annual theme, as well as something to represent my faith (one of my Core Values), right in the middle of my board to keep me centered and grounded. You can make your board as detailed or simple as you’d like, but that’s really all there is to it!
How To USE Your Vision Board
Keep your board in a visible space where you’ll see it frequently. A great option: next to your bed, so it’s the first thing you view in the morning and the last thing at night.
As you look at it, take in the experience of joy, freedom, success, and whatever positive emotions your board represents for you. Let it center and inspire you.
I keep mine in my office and have found that if I start to question why I’m doing something or my focus begins to wander, my board reminds me of my purpose and brings me back to where I need to be.
Your vision board serves many important functions: it reminds you, in a picturesque way, who you are and who you strive to be; it keeps your goals present so you remain open to opportunity; and it encourages you to be thankful for all you’ve been blessed with as you move through your work and life.
Not so woo-woo after all. 🙂
Will you make a vision board before the new year? Share your ideas below, on our Facebook page, or via Twitter – we’d love to know what you’re up to!
Dr. Christi Hegstad helps you successfully do what you love! As President of MAP Professional Development Inc., she coaches professionals to get unstuck and reach Bold Goals with clarity, confidence, and meaningful action.
Learn more at www.meaning-and-purpose.com and follow Dr. Christi on Facebook and Twitter.
Now enrolling for the 2014 ASPIRE Success Club! Click here for details.