Write the Vision... Board?

Confession- My line sister forced me to make my first vision board.

Ok, she didn’t put a gun to my head or anything but she wouldn’t take no for an answer. I went to the vision board party to fellowship and support. I did NOT go to make a vision board. I had never made a vision board and frankly had never planned to start. I didn’t see how it would serve me much purpose. I mean, I had a vision. It was just in my head. I had not brought a single supply to make a vision board. I brought a dish though. It was my intention to eat and talk. Not a single poster board, magazine, marker nor thumbtack made the journey with me. Of course, she had extra supplies. So I conceded and made a haphazard and pitiful little vision board. I even hung it up in my closet.

Something happened as a result of that. Without realizing it, I paid attention to the vision board. The things that I had on the vision board became more prevalent thoughts in my mind. I became more focused on the vision, my vision. When I accomplished something from the board, I was excited and I felt accomplished. I finally understood the purpose of a vision board.

Now the end of the year is here. The end of the year is often a time of reflection. I reflect on what went well and what could have gone better. I think about the wins that I have had and the wins of those around me. I also think about the losses and where I fell short.

Looking at my 2021 vision board, I am thankful for what I have been able to accomplish. I completed my transition from “straight natural” to “curly natural”. I published my first book, the CANspiration Journal, and was published in Chicken Soup for the Soul: I'm Speaking Now.

There are also some things that didn’t go as planned and will be moved to the 2022 vision board such as routine exercise. I had periods of consistency but did not do nearly as well in this area as I had planned. In part, I blame this on my hip issues but no matter the case, it needs improvement. I also didn’t finish decorating my house. Don’t ask me how long I have been living in the said house either, lol. I didn’t read as many books as I wanted but I did try more audiobooks for the first time this year and that has been a good experience!

Some things will be ongoing every year because they are essential to life and growth such as nurturing my relationship with God. I also strive to excel as a wife and mother. A few things that will be better prioritized and on the 2022 vision board include focusing more on rest and self-care. I have fallen short in this area and recognize the need to do better going forward.

No matter who you are, what you do, or what is going on in your life you could benefit from creating a vision board. Take it from a converted non-believer like me.

Vision boards help you to keep your goals at the forefront.

Vision boards help you prioritize your goals.

Vision boards illustrate what is important to you.

Vision boards motivate you to follow through.

Vision boards stop you (or at least limit) from making excuses.

These are just a few of the beneficial reasons that come to my mind but I am sure that a quick Google search will give even more insight. There may even be a study or article that expounds more.

Since making the first board in 2018, I have been making one each year. They are not professional by any means but they have at least improved along the way, right lol? Now, I don’t plan to stop. Last year, I even got my family in on the action. Sometimes you just need a little push or a downright kick in the right direction. (Thanks sis.)

You can never go wrong with having a vision for your life. I’m not saying Habakkuk was talking about making a vision board but there is no denying that the words apply. There must be something to it. And the Lord answered me, and said, Write the vision, and make it plain upon tables, that he may run that readeth it. Habakkuk 2:2.

Have you ever considered making a vision board? Why or why not? If you do make one, what other benefits would you add to this list?