How to Create an Inspiring Vision Board
By definition, vision is “the ability to think about and plan for the future with imagination and wisdom.”
Regardless of where you are in the cycle of this crazy thing we call life, it is so important to have a vision. It helps you create plans, set goals, and make decisions that will develop your lifestyle.
Often as we think about our future and what we want it to look like, it’s easy to get distracted by the action steps (plan) we must take to get us to where we want to go before we have clarity on what that really looks like (vision).
Don’t get me wrong. Vision and strategy are both important. You need a strategic plan to accomplish the goals you have set in place.
But if you’re not crystal clear on what the “big picture” looks like before you make a plan, your race to the finish line could be a futile and exhausting one.
Likewise, if you don’t have an appropriate plan with applicable action steps in place, you can’t expect to get where you think you are going.
Your vision and plan must align.
By nature I am a planner… maybe a little too much so, if that is possible. A plan gives this sister a sense of control and makes me feel safe; an overall feeling of “with-it-ness”.
But here’s the deal. I can make all the plans in the world, but if I’m not intentionally focused on a specific destination, I might as well put on my “just along for the ride” t-shirt souvenir and enjoy the freakin’ scenery… because who knows where I will end up.
One of the best ways to establish a clear vision for where you will be and what you will be doing in the years to come is writing a letter from your future self.
It will be one of the most motivating things you will do for yourself.
Writing down your hopes, dreams, aspirations, etc. as future facts will ignite a spark of enthusiasm within you.
It will help you see that what you desire is attainable. The energy and emotion generated by the letter will naturally increase your motivation to work toward your goals.
Once you’ve nailed down your vision, it’s time to create your inspiring vision board.
If this is an entirely new concept for you, let me explain.
A vision board is a collage of pictures, magazine clippings, words, quotes, etc. that constantly remind you WHY you do what you do. Obviously, you want to put that sucker in plain sight so you never forget your purpose and mission.
As you create your vision board, keep in mind that it should serve you in the following ways:
Create an emotional connection that motivates you – Your vision board will only be as beneficial as the work you are willing to put into it. Make it as detailed and exciting as possible.
Help you believe your dream is possible – No matter what you believe about yourself, a vision board done right will transform your inner belief system.
Help you clarify what you really want out of life – As you find you are drawn more to some things and away from others, don’t be afraid to modify your vision over time. It’s a vision board, not a stone tablet.
Once your vision board is complete, it’s time to make a plan.
What steps do you need to take in the next 90 days to set your feet firmly on your path to your declared purpose? What actions do you need to take in the next six months, year, three years, five years, etc.
You know what they say, “A dream without a plan is only a wish.”
Sister, don’t put this off. Your future is counting on it.
Check out this recent blog post for some practical vision inspiration.
