At the start of a new year, many of us start wiping our slates clean and dreaming of the fresh months ahead of us. We resolve to do better, be better, become different versions ourselves. “I’ll lose ten pounds.” “I’ll cut out coffee.” “I’ll be a calmer mom.”
While resolutions are generally well-intentioned, they often feel rigid and overly specific. A vision board, on the other hand, is a creative, more intuitive way to think of the year ahead.
What Is a Vision Board?
A vision board is a visual representation of your goals, dreams, and desires. It can take many forms: a classic poster board, a bulletin board or magnetic board, a file folder, or even a page in your journal. Traditionally, vision boards are created by flipping through magazines and cutting out images and words that resonate with you. But in today’s digital age, Pinterest or Google Image Search can make the process even more specific.
How to Make a Vision Board
1. Choose Your Canvas
First, decide where you want your vision to live. A large poster board gives you space to dream big, while a compact file folder or journal page might suit you better if you prefer something portable and/or private. The first time I made a vision board, I opted for a magnetic glass board so that I could hang it like a piece of art, while also having the flexibility to move pieces around or add new ones throughout the year. (Photo above)
2. Gather Your Materials
Stock up on magazines, newspapers, scissors, glue, and tape. If you’re searching online, print out images that match your goals or simply bring you joy. Raid your own mailbox for the catalogs you normally throw away—they often have images you can use!
3. Start Envisioning
There are two ways to approach this:
-
- The Intuitive Route: Flip through printed material and cut out whatever catches your eye. Don’t overthink it—trust that what resonates with you will make sense later.
- The Intentional Route: Before starting, spend some time journaling. Ask yourself questions like:
-
-
- How do I want to feel this year?
- What kind of spaces do I want to visit?
- What do I want to surround myself with?
- What would make me feel inspired?
- What would make me feel complete?
- How do I define success? What does that look like?
- What do I want more of in life?
- What do I want less of?
-
If you want to spend more time feeling peaceful and less time feeling stressed or rushed, you might find photographs of the ocean, blossoming plants, an open road, a cozy mug of coffee—all images that bring a sense of peace and calm.
4. Assemble and Arrange
Possibly the most fun part! Start assembling your vision board by laying your pieces out, arranging in an aesthetically pleasing or meaningful way. Layer for a collaged look or leave space for room to breathe. Some people create sections for different areas of their life.
5. Display
Once your vision board is complete, find a safe place to keep it where you can check in with your dreams and aspirations regularly. One year, I kept mine in my closet so I’d see it while getting ready every day.
If you’re looking to skip the pressure of resolutions this year, try a vision board instead. Grab some magazines and scissors, get creative, and immerse yourself in imagery for the year ahead.
