Vision Boards that Work: 7 Ways to See and Achieve Your Best Life
Confession time: A year ago, I hated vision boards.
OK, maybe “hate” is a strong word. Disliked. I had no use for them.
When I heard someone talking about one, I had to work hard to not visibly show any of following reactions:
turning up my nose
rolling my eyes
shrugging it off
Instead, I’d smile politely and nod, and think to myself, “That’s a little too woo-woo for me.” I thought they were a little too impractical for my logical mind.
Until a friend and fellow coach (who happens to loooovvvve vision boards) offered a workshop last year about the power they can bring to us.
Fast forward 7 months…
This morning I’ll be co-facilitating a vision board session for some women business owners in Western New York.
Why the change?
Because seeing is believing.
And vision boards help us see.
What Vision Boards Help Us See
Vision boards don’t just capture our vision for our lives… they can actually change what we see and how we see our lives. Here’s how:
See yourself. If you’re feeling like you want a life that’s “more fulfilling,” but you aren’t really sure what that means, using images can unlock those desires. Our brains understand images at a deeper, more intuitive level than words. When you identify images that resonate with who you want to be or how you want to live, you tap into your most authentic self. Vision boards help us visualize the life we want and answer the question: What would my life look like if it was more fulfilling?
See what you deeply desire. Vision boards aren’t just scrapbook pages of “nice-to-haves” or “if-I-won-the-lottery” lists. They’re opportunities to identify what truly makes you healthy, joyful, and whole. Instead of saying, “I want less stress,” you might choose an image that represents peace. This subtle shift helps you focus on what you want more of, not just what you want to avoid.
See more clearly. Creating a vision board is like putting on a new pair of glasses—the kind that bring your priorities into sharp focus. Reflecting on what matters most to you and finding images that bring your vision to life can provide clarity in areas like career, health, relationships, and spiritual growth.
See the big picture. Making a vision board is like stepping onto the balcony of your life. From up there, you can gain perspective, seeing your life as a whole rather than just the daily grind. When you ask, “What do I really need to be healthy and whole?” from that vantage point, the answers might surprise you.
See it from within. You’ll gain more power and inspiration from your vision board when you choose photos that show your vision from your own perspective. For example, I have two photos of a vehicle on my board. One shows the exterior of the exact model I want, but the other shows the steering wheel and dashboard. Why? Because that’s what I’ll see most often when this vision becomes reality. Choosing images that reflect your view helps you embody the experience you’re creating.
See your next step. Seeing your desired outcomes regularly also helps you see and take the next (or first!) small step. Vision boards are more than dreamy wish lists—they’re tools that help you take ownership of your life and to move forward, one small step at a time.
See your growth in motivation and resilience. To get the most out of your vision board, keep it somewhere you’ll see it often. Frequent exposure (daily or more!) to your vision can increase motivation and perseverance. Athletes use visualization to improve performance, and you can use it to stay inspired and resilient, even when struggles come along.
Why I’ve changed my tune
I’ve come to understand the power of creating a clear vision for life—especially when that vision is captured in images, not just words.
A vision board isn’t a magic wand. It won’t make all your dreams come true overnight. But it does change things—because it changes you. Slowly, patiently, consistently.
My vision board has created real, tangible shifts in life—and become an important part of my journey.
Last year, I created a virtual vision board using Canva. I customized a pre-made template (making it teal, of course!), chose photos, edited words, and added my guiding word for the year. When I was happy with it (knowing I could always edit it later), I set it as my computer wallpaper. Seeing it every day made a huge difference.
Some of the images on my board reflected desires I’d held for years but hadn’t acted on. Within six months, I started taking steps toward making those dreams a reality. They aren’t all complete, but there’s progress—and that’s more than I can say for the previous five years.
For 2025, I’ve updated my board with new photos and a new guiding word. Every time I see it, I feel excited and inspired.
Tips for Creating Your Vision Board
If you’re ready to try it for yourself, here are a few tips:
It doesn’t have to be physical. If you love to get crafty, go for it. I know it’s powerful to physically create something. However – if you’re like me and the thought of scissors and glue makes you break out in hives – digital tools like Canva are game-changers.
There’s no right way, no wrong way, just your way. Use the process that works for you. I set a timer, chose what felt “good enough,” and let it be imperfect—just like life.
Keep it visible. The power of a vision board lies in seeing it regularly. Place it where you’ll encounter it often, whether that’s your desk, a bedroom wall, or your phone wallpaper.
Ready to Refresh Your Vision for Your Life?
If the idea of creating a vision board excites you, imagine what it would feel like to take that vision and bring it to life…
That’s what Real Life Refresh is all about. This program is all about helping women like us—those who are ready for something more but aren’t quite sure where to start—rediscover what truly matters and create a life that reflects it.
You’ll gain clarity about your values, priorities, and goals, along with the tools to start living a life that feels less overwhelming and more authentic. Plus, you’ll be surrounded by a community of like-minded women who will cheer you on every step of the way.
What if this year could be the year you finally take those steps?
I’m offering an early enrollment discount of $200 off until January 31. If you’re feeling ready for a refresh—and maybe even a little excited about the possibilities—why not take action now, while this year is still new and your sense of hope is still strong?
Your vision for a more fulfilling life is waiting. Let’s make it happen together.
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