To make a vision board can be as simple as grabbing a glue stick, some scissors, and a stack of magazines. However, making vision boards is an opportunity to engage in a powerful practice of self-reflection and manifestation.
This article has some great suggestions to make the most out of making a vision board by taking a few steps ahead of time, you’ll be setting the stage for a meaningful and inspiring process.
Whether you’re a seasoned vision board creator or new to this practice, taking the time to prepare can make your vision board more powerful and elevate its outcomes.
I’ve had over a decade of experience making vision boards and guiding others through the process. I’ve uncovered some unique insights that I’m excited to share with you. In this article, I’ve compiled a variety of suggestions to help you prepare yourself to make a vision board. Think of these tips as suggestions rather than a set of rigid rules. You’re free to pick and choose the ideas that resonate with you and fit your vision.
Whether you find a few or many of these suggestions useful, my hope is that they will guide you toward making a vision board that truly reflects your dreams and sets the stage for an incredible future.
Make Space to Make and Create
Let’s explore several ways that you can create different types of spaces that are necessary for making vision boards in. There are actual physical spaces to gather materials, make the vision board and display it. Then there is the creative space within your own mind that needs room to dream and vision quest.
Space for Images and Ideas
Start by designating a space where you can gather your ideas and inspirations. I suggest having one place for physical stuff and another on a computer for images and thoughts. One could be a physical folder at home where you start collecting images and clippings, photographs and decorative paper that resonate with you. If you are into journaling in books then designate a section in that for your vision board planning.
Also, consider creating a folder on your computer or device. Use this space to journal your thoughts, jot down insights, and download images you stumble upon that catch your eye. This practice serves as a creative incubator for your future vision board. It’s a tangible space where your dreams start to take shape, laying the groundwork for your vision board.
Space to Dream
As you prepare to make a vision board, it’s just as important to cultivate space in your mind as it is to work with your physical environment.
Embrace the opportunity to dream and welcome fresh ideas that may come from your intuition or the world around you. This process involves letting go of old habits or thoughts that might be anchoring you to your current conditions that you want to change.
Approach this experience with the enthusiasm and curiosity of a beginner, much like the excitement of starting a new school year. This time, however, you hold the reins of your own curriculum—by making it on your vision board.
Allow yourself the freedom to dream: take deeper breaths, relax, and gently prepare your nervous system for the transformative journey ahead. Every small step you take can bring meaningful change, setting the stage for a new chapter in your life.
Space for Your Vision Board to Live
Choosing the right space for your vision board to live is an essential part of the process. Start by looking around your home or office for a spot that feels positive and inspiring where your vision board can live for a year or so.
Consider the size of the space available—this will help you determine the dimensions of your board. Aim for a place where your vision board can be surrounded by artwork or objects that uplift and motivate you, creating a warm and encouraging atmosphere for it to dwell.
Space to Make a Vision Board
Next, think about where you’ll actually create your vision board. You’ll need ample room to spread out your images, board, and any other materials. Consider if you’d like to incorporate candles or other elements to set the mood. If you’re planning on having a vision board party then design your space to accommodate everyone comfortably.
List Your Intentions.. or Not
When setting out to make a vision board, one of the first steps is to decide what you want to put on it. For many, this means setting clear, tangible goals—whether it’s a career milestone, a dream vacation, or acquiring a cherished possession.
This approach involves defining what you want and using specific imagery that resonates with those ambitions. Some people find great satisfaction in this methodical approach, as it allows them to visualize their path with certainty and focus. By having concrete objectives, they can build a vision board that not only serves as a constant reminder of their intentions but also helps chart a course toward achieving them.
On the other hand, some individuals are drawn to the emotional essence of what a vision board represents. Instead of focusing solely on specific goals, they prefer to immerse themselves in the feelings and possibilities that these future experiences may bring.
This is where the concept of intentional versus discoverable imagery comes into play. Intentional imagery involves carefully selecting images that symbolize specific desires, while discoverable imagery allows for a spontaneous and intuitive selection process, embracing the unexpected inspirations that arise along the way.
Both approaches are equally valid and often overlap, creating a vision board with personal dreams and spontaneous insights. For those who enjoy planning, it might be beneficial to start with journaling and listing potential goals and feelings before diving into the creative process. However, if you’re more spontaneous, feel free to let your intuition take the lead and skip this step of planning what you want on the vision board completely.
Gather Materials and Plan Ahead
Don’t wait until the last minute to gather your materials. Start shopping for your poster board, vision board clip art books, magazines, scissors, glue, and any other supplies you’ll need well in advance.
This proactive approach ensures that you’re ready to create without interruption. Plus, you can enjoy the process more when you’re not scrambling for materials on the day you plan to work on your board. Having your materials in place is a statement to yourself that you’re committed to your dreams.
Embrace this part of the process by choosing supplies that inspire you—perhaps a board with a color that sparks joy or special shaped scissors that are beveled and create a lovely texture. Every detail counts, contributing to an atmosphere of creativity and openness. As you handle these materials, imagine the potential within them, ready to be shaped by your intentions.
Set the Date and Decorate
Pick a date to make your vision board and put it on the calendar. Prepare your space with elements that inspire and relax you, such as a music playlist, soothing candles, or your favorite snacks and beverages. Creating a warm and inviting atmosphere helps you tap into your creative flow and enhances your overall experience. This is your sacred time, a personal retreat where your dreams are given the freedom to unfold.
Preparing to make a vision board is an empowering exercise in itself. By taking these steps, you’re not just organizing materials but also aligning your mind and spirit for the manifestation process. Allow this preparation phase to be a sweet time of self-discovery and creativity. And by all means, make a beautiful manifesting vision board.