How do I create a vision board to help me reach my goals?

Do you want a visual way to motivate yourself to achieve your goals?

Then a vision board is the right tool for you!

A vision board is like a collage. It has words and images that help you become clear about what you want.

It's a visual representation of your goals and desires: what you want to have, be, or do.

An inspiring board allows you to bring the things you dream about to "life". It can be a powerful tool in reaching the goals that you set for yourself.

It motivates you to achieve those goals by letting you see it, do it, and be it!

Photo by Tingey Injury Law Firm on Unsplash

Your board can focus on one topic or multiple topics such as:

•  Physical transformation

•  Social (Personal life, friends, family)

•  Travel

•  Mental health

•  Career/school

•  Spiritual

•  Home

•  Personal development

Once you think about your topics, ask yourself:

• Will you focus on one area of your life or multiple areas?

• What’s the best possible outcome for the area(s) that you’re focusing on?

• What were last year’s accomplishments and how can you build on them?

• See your finished board in your mind’s eye.

Take a few deep breaths and get started!

Eric's Vision Board

Erik is setting his intention before creating his board. What should he think about?

A. The colors he wants to use.

B. The words and images to use to help him achieve his career goal.

C. Where he will hang his board once it's finished.

D. How often to look at his board.

• Board — corkboard, poster board, cardboard, or even canvas

• Magazines or inspiring photographs 

• Colored pencils, markers, paint, crayons

• Pretty paper like wrapping paper

• Scissors, glue, tape (regular or washi)

• Ticket stubs, souvenirs, or other memorabilia related to your topic

• Poems, mantras, quotes, prayers, religious passages, or affirmations related to your topic

• Any other creative materials you like!

Have your materials? Then you’re ready to design!

• You can use wrapping paper, washi tape, or even ribbons to create a background for your board.

• Don't be afraid to experiment with your layout. Place your words and images in different areas of your vision board until you find the layout that you like.

• If your board has multiple topics, place materials related to each topic in its own section so your board isn't confusing.

Only place those things that inspire or motivate you on your board. It’s all about how the images and words make you feel.

Now it’s time to put your board to use!

1. Hang it someplace where you’ll see it daily.

2. Look at your vision board and visualize the situations that your board represents.

   • What will it feel like when you reach your goal?

   • What do you see, hear or smell?

   • Who's around you when you reach your goal?

3. If you’re having a bad day, look at your vision board to remind you why you do what you do.

4. Update your board as needed (at least yearly).

Having a vision board isn’t a guarantee of success, but it can be one step towards helping you achieve your goals. Create one today!