You’ve probably heard the words “vision board” thrown around a lot. It’s not a new or unknown concept.

You may have even tried to create a vision board – maybe it even worked for you.

I actually first learned about vision boards in one of my high school classes, and that’s when I created my first one. I loved the concept and I’ve created even more since then.

I’ve seen and heard so many people ask why they should create a vision board.

“Am I doing it wrong? Why doesn’t it work? Why even create one? What’s the point?”

Well, today I thought I’d share my tips and thoughts on creating vision boards and how to make one that works!

First: why should you create a vision board?

Here are just a few reasons why vision boards are a helpful tool:

A vision board helps you create a bigger, more clear view of the life that you want to have.
It’s an easier, more fun way of setting goals.
Seeing your goals and ideal life every day motivates you to get out there and make it a reality.
Seeing your vision board allows you to get into a more positive mindset, which increases your chances of reaching your goals.
A vision board allows you to actually visualize what you want, which is more motivating than looking at words on paper.
It allows you to be more creative with your goal setting and think outside of the box.

Now here are some tips for creating an awesome vision board that works for you:

Step 1: Pick a distraction-free place to work on it.

Before you do anything else, you’ll want a quiet (unless music or noise helps you be more creative) place to work, free of any distractions. If you really want to think about and envision the life that you want, you’ve gotta be able to focus. Also, grab a cup of coffee, tea, or wine to help you get in your zone.

Step 2: Think hard about what you want.

Before you start on your vision board, think about what kind of life you want. Now is the time to ask yourself a few questions so that you have somewhat of a plan. Write down important notes about your goals and dreams. Think about questions like:

What do you want your life to look like 1, 5, and/or 10 years from now?
What do you want to accomplish, create, or do in life?
Who and what makes you happy?
Where do you want to live or travel to?
What would your ideal day or life look like?
Who do you want to help?
What area of your life do you want/need to improve?

Step 3: What kind of vision board do you want?

Now it’s time to figure out what kind of vision board you want. Do you want an actual, physical, cut-and-paste vision board? You can use magazine photos, family photos, photos from the internet, and photos of yourself. You can put these photos on a poster board, in a journal, in a notebook, etc. Or do you want to just create a Pinterest board filled with pretty pictures and quotes? Do whatever will work best for you!

Step 4: Make sure that you’re being intentional.

Slapping on random pretty pictures or nice quotes isn’t going to help you get closer to your goals. Be sure that you’re working with a purpose and being intentional with your choices. You want to create a board that helps you get closer to your goals. This means that you should only choose things that have meaning to you.

Step 5: Create the board!

Now that you have at least an idea of what you want and how you’ll make your board, it’s time to do it. Find photos of what you want, where you want to be, who you want to be with, stuff that motivates you, etc. For example, if you want to live in Hawaii, find photos of Hawaii. If you want to be a doctor, find photos of a doctor. You get the idea, just be creative with it. Also, a few motivational quotes could help too. Do whatever works for you!

You can click here for free vision board quote printables from A House Full of Sunshine.

Step 6: Figure out how to make the shiz happen.

So now that your board is (at least mostly) complete, it’s time to figure out how to make your dreams a reality. Take out a notebook or piece of paper and write down the steps you need to take to achieve your vision. Because vision boards are helpful, but you can’t just make it and forget it. It won’t reach your goals and dreams for you. You’ve gotta do the work too!

Step 7: Look at it and believe in it.

As I said, a vision board won’t reach your goals for you. You’ve gotta be part of the equation. So believe in yourself and believe that you can do whatever you want – as long as you stay focused and hustle. If you made a physical vision board, put it up on your wall so you’ll see it every day and stay motivated and inspired.

If you made a vision board on Pinterest, make sure you log in every day and scroll through it. Or take a screenshot of it and use it as your phone wallpaper. Do whatever it takes to make sure you keep it in your mind.

If you’re into witchy things like me, here’s a great post from The Traveling Witch about how to use vision boards with your witchcraft!

Step 8: Check in on your progress and celebrate.

Make sure you regularly check in on your goals. If you accomplish something from the board, check it off. Use a pretty pen or stickers or something so you know how far you’re progressing. Also, I’m a firm believer in rewards so make sure you celebrate your wins – no matter how big or small. Because you deserve it!