Do You Need A Vision Board?

The first time I heard of “Vision Boards” was in college, Business 101. Although the professor explained its effectiveness and the experiences he and his students encountered, I wasn’t convinced. His unconventional approach deviated from the textbook fundamentals, and consisted more of story time about his life experiences. At the time, I didn’t appreciate his talent for story telling, nor did I care for the morals that went with them. It wasn’t until I gain experience throughout my life and career that I would find myself recalling those lessons.

What is a Vision Board?

Vision boards are a tangible and visual representation of your goals, dreams, and aspirations. It is a collection of images, words, and affirmations that reflect the life you desire. Vision boards help you clarify your aspirations, focus your energy on what you want, and becomes a roadmap for your future. While the concept might seem simple, the practice of creating a vision board is rooted in psychological and cognitive principles that can enhance goal-setting and achievement.

How is it helpful?

The effectiveness of vision boards can be explained by principles in cognitive psychology and the psychology of motivation. The brain processes images faster than text, and visualization has been shown to activate neural networks associated with goal-oriented behavior. When you regularly expose yourself to positive images and affirmations, you stimulate the reticular activating system (RAS), a part of the brain that filters information and prioritizes what you focus on.

Additionally, the psychological concept of the Law of Attraction suggests that visualizing your goals can attract positive outcomes. While this idea has both proponents and skeptics, the psychological benefits of positive thinking and goal-oriented focus are well-established.

What You’ll Need:

• Poster Board or Canvas: Choose a size that allows you to display your vision board prominently.
• Magazines or Printed Images: Collect magazines or print images from the internet that resonate with your goals and aspirations.
• Scissors and Glue: Essential tools for cutting out images and attaching them to your board.
• Markers or Pens: Use these to write affirmations or additional personal notes on your vision board.
• Stickers, Ribbons, or Other Embellishments: Decorative elements to enhance the visual appeal of your board.
• Quiet and Reflective Space: Find a peaceful environment where you can focus and let your creativity flow.

Note: You can certainly opt for a digital version or utilize an app.

How to Make Your Vision Board:

1. Reflect on Your Goals:
   • Take some time to reflect on your short-term and long-term goals. Consider what you want to achieve in various areas of your life, such as career, relationships, health, and personal development.
2. Gather Materials:
   • Collect magazines, images, and any other materials you’d like to include on your vision board. Ensure you have all the necessary tools, including scissors, glue, and markers.
3. Create Affirmations:
   • Write down positive affirmations that align with your goals. These can be statements that affirm your capabilities, strengths, and the positive outcomes you wish to attract.
4. Cut and Arrange:
   • Start cutting out images and words that resonate with your goals. Arrange them on your poster board or canvas in a way that is visually appealing to you. Consider the layout and organization of your vision board.
5. Affix and Decorate:
   • Glue the images and affirmations onto your board. Add any additional decorative elements that enhance the visual appeal and personal significance of your vision board.
6. Display in a Prominent Place:
   • Place your vision board in a location where you will see it daily. This could be in your bedroom, office, or any other space where you spend a significant amount of time.
7. Reflect Regularly:
   • Take a few moments each day to look at your vision board. Reflect on your goals, visualize the outcomes, and internalize the positive affirmations. This regular practice helps reinforce your focus and motivation.

Creating a vision board is not a magical solution, but rather a tool that aligns with psychological principles to reinforce positive thinking and goal-oriented behavior. By consistently exposing yourself to your aspirations in a visual format, you create a powerful reminder of what you are working toward, which can positively impact your mindset and actions. Plus, who doesn’t love a chance to do adult arts and crafts?! So, gather your materials, find a quiet space, and embark on the journey of creating your personalized vision board for a brighter and more intentional future.