I recently sat down to start a creative project and found myself frozen. Sometimes my goals just feel fuzzy and distant. A friend suggested I create a vision board to clarify my thoughts and get me started. She explained that putting pictures, words, and anything else that inspires me might keep me focused and motivated.
I decided to take my friend’s advice and began creating a vision board. The exercise was very helpful; there’s something about seeing visual cues all together that made the project feel more achievable. For me, the vision board served as a powerful tool for self-discovery and goal-setting, which helped me successfully organize my thoughts and ideas.
What Is a Vision Board?
A vision board, also referred to as a dream board, is a collage of images and words representing my dreams and goals. I fill by board with inspiring quotes, cool pictures I tear out of magazines, and maybe even some funny memes to keep things light. It’s all about surrounding myself with stuff that gets me fired up and my creative juices moving. Additionally, it serves as a tool for accountability and encouragement.
It seems vision boards, which can be digital or physical, have taken the world by storm. I prefer physical vision boards because, In our increasingly digital world, they offer a tangible reminder of my aspirations. Being able to physically touch and interact with the board can make my goals feel more real and achievable.
Why Are Vision Boards So Popular?
There are multiple reasons why vision boards are so popular. For example:
Accessibility
They’re incredibly accessible. No fancy equipment is needed, just some creativity and materials you likely already have around the house (or a free digital platform!). This makes them a tool anyone can use for goal setting.
Visual Power
Our brains process visuals much faster than text. By surrounding ourselves with images and words that represent our desires, we create a powerful and memorable connection to our goals.
Positivity Boost
Vision boards are inherently positive. They focus on what you want to achieve, rather than what you lack. This positive focus can boost your mood and keep you motivated on your journey.
Versatility
They can be tailored to any goal, big or small, personal or professional. Whether you’re dreaming of a vacation or a career change, a vision board can help you start brainstorming the steps needed to get there.
Crafting Your Vision Board
In a nutshell, you want your vision board to help identify your goals. You can focus on various aspects of your life whether your dream board relates to a specific project, your career, your health, relationships, a vacation, etc. To get started, ask yourself some powerful questions to spark ideas. For example, “If money and limitations weren’t a concern, what would my end goal look like for this project?”, “What does my ideal day look like?” or “What affirmations or mantras can I use to stay motivated?”.
Don’t be afraid to dream big! Vision boards are all about visualizing your wildest dreams and setting your intentions. There are no right or wrong answers, so have fun with it! Use your board as a brainstorming session; you can narrow it down later.
Physical Vision Boards
Where to start when designing your physical vision board? First, choose your board. Popular choices include corkboard and posterboard. Second, gather inspiration from magazines, newspapers, online searches, quotes, or affirmations. Curate images and words that resonate with your goals and evoke positive emotions. Next, arrange elements in a way that inspires you. You can categorize the elements or create a free-flowing layout, whichever suits you best. For me, a free-flowing aesthetic allows for more creativity. Others prefer a more organized approach. There is no right or wrong way to do it. Finally, place your board in a convenient location where you will see it all the time. It will lead you to think and reflect on your goals every time you see it.
Supplies for Physical Vision Boards
There are many types of physical vision boards and if you love arts and crafts, you’ll especially love making this type of dream board. Search online for examples of vision boards for inspiration if you need to. Here is a list of supplies to consider gathering to get started.
The Base
A wide variety of materials will work as a base. Here are some examples:
- Posterboard
- Scrapbook paper
- Printable background
- Corkboard
- Etc.
Paper Images
Where to find paper images for your board? here are some ideas.
- Magazine cutouts or clippings
- Printable inspirational words and phrases, black and white or color
- Printable colorful vision board empowering words and phrases
- Printable motivational quotes
- Printable positive affirmations
- Etc.
Tape or Glue to Secure Images
Any kind of tape generally will work. If you prefer glue but don’t like the mess, glue sticks work very well. Here are the tape and glue supplies I like best for my physical vision boards.
- Tombow repositionable tape roller
- Tombow mono permanent adhesive roller
- Glue stick
- Repositionable glue stick
- Pins (for Corkboard base)
Writing Tools
Use whatever writing utensil that works best for you!
- Pens
- Markers
- Sharpies
Cutting Tools
Optional Craft Supplies
Use any supplies that work for you! The above list is simply to get you started. The more fun you have, the more you inject powerful positive energy into your vision board. I generally order my supplies on Amazon, but if you prefer to purchase locally, check out Michael’s, Hobby Lobby, JoAnne’s, Target, or Walmart.
Digital Vision Boards
Digital vision boards are equally effective and generally free if you prefer to go that route. And the digital world offers several options to get started.
Popular Digital Vision Board Apps
Here are the three most popular vision board apps:
- Canva – Canva offers a user-friendly platform with a wide variety of free templates and design elements created specifically for vision boards.
- Pinterest – Pinterest provides examples for inspiration and detailed instructions. It also allows you to create boards dedicated to your vision with easy image collection and organization.
- Milanote -Milanote is an easy-to-use tool to organize your ideas and projects into visual boards. Its flexible platform lets you combine images, text, notes, and links.
Add your own touch to the online platforms. You can customize your board with text, colors, and backgrounds that reflect your personality and style. Enjoy experimenting; you can refine as you go.
Gathering Inspiration
Have fun diving into online searches or browsing social media for hashtags like #visionboard or #dreamboard. You can even flip through digital magazines. Find images that resonate with your goals and evoke the feelings you want to cultivate. The internet has a seemingly endless supply of inspiration available.
After your board is complete, set it as your wallpaper for a constant dose of motivation! Seeing your goals daily helps keep you focused and inspired.
Vision Board Parties
Vision board parties are an up-and-coming trend! They are a fun and social way to get motivated and spark creativity around goal setting.
What are Vision Board Parties?
I understand why physical vision board parties are popular. Imagine a gathering of friends or like-minded individuals, each creating their own vision boards while enjoying good company, food, and drinks. These parties provide the opportunity to share inspiration, offer encouragement, and hold each other accountable. The best part? Knowing others are working on their dreams can make you more likely to stick to yours.
The virtual world offers its own twist on vision board parties. People can gather online via Zoom or Google Meet and share their screens while they create digital boards. It’s a great way to offer encouragement remotely.
Either way, in person or online, vision board parties are trending for collaborative inspiration. Keep it small or invite a large group. Most importantly, have fun and enjoy the collaborative energy!
Conclusion
Ready to give vision boards a try? They are a powerful tool many use to clarify goals and ignite their motivation to achieve them. Creating these boards, both digital and physical, forces you to define your dreams and aspirations. Seeing them visually helps you stay focused on what truly matters. Many believe vision boards tap into the Law of Attraction where zoning in on your desires sends a message to the universe and helps manifest them. For me, vision boards make me think about what it is I really want. And they help get me unstuck.
So, let the creativity flow! The results are different for everyone and there are no wrong answers. Design your own vision board and embark on your journey towards achieving your goals. If you have already designed vision boards, we would love for you to share them on social media using the hashtag #50PlusTodayVisionBoards.
FAQs About Vision Boards
Below are some commonly asked questions about vision boards along with their answers.
How do I create a vision board?
To create a vision board, start by gathering magazines, images, quotes, and other materials that resonate with your goals. Then, arrange these items on a board or poster in a way that reflects your vision and inspires you. You can also create digital vision boards using online tools or apps.
What are the benefits of using a vision board?
Vision boards can help clarify your goals, keep you focused and motivated, boost your confidence, and reinforce positive thinking. They serve as a constant reminder of what you want to achieve, making it easier to stay committed to your goals.
Can anyone use a vision board?
Absolutely, anyone can use a vision board regardless of age, background, or goals. Whether you aim for personal growth, career advancement, improved relationships, or health and wellness goals, a vision board can be a valuable tool.
How often should I update my vision board?
It’s beneficial to review and update your vision board regularly, especially as your goals and priorities evolve. Some people update their vision boards quarterly, while others do it annually or whenever they achieve a significant milestone or change direction in life.
Do vision boards really work?
The effectiveness of vision boards depends on how you use them. They can be powerful tools for goal setting and visualization, but they require action and commitment on your part. Simply creating a vision board won’t magically make things happen; you need to take concrete steps toward your goals.
What if my goals change after creating a vision board?
It’s normal for goals to evolve over time. If your goals change, you can update your vision board accordingly by replacing or adding new images and content that align with your updated vision and aspirations.
Can I share my vision board with others?
Sharing your vision board with trusted friends, family members, or mentors can be beneficial as they can provide support, encouragement, and feedback. However, it’s essential to be selective about who you share it with and ensure they respect your goals and aspirations.
Are there different types of vision boards?
Yes, there are various types of vision boards, such as goal-specific boards (e.g., career goals, travel goals), theme-based boards (e.g., wellness, creativity), and digital vision boards created using apps or software. Choose the type that best suits your needs and preferences.