Each year as December comes to a close, many of us set resolutions to improve our lives, such as eating healthier, journaling more, or reducing screen time. However, by the end of the year, we often realize that little has changed. In 2024, people on TikTok are approaching New Year’s resolutions differently. Rather than letting your goals fade away in a forgotten notebook or app, consider making a vision board.
You may have created vision boards in the past (remember cutting out magazine pictures and pasting them on a poster?), but vision boards have since evolved. Whether you want to attract new career opportunities, clearer skin, or a chance encounter in Greece that leads to meeting your soulmate, a vision board can help you visualize your aspirations into reality. Read on to learn how to craft a vision board that will surpass your previous New Year’s resolutions.
Why ditch your typical resolutions for a vision board
Avoid the “New Year, New Me” mentality of past years. Have you ever felt pressured by resolutions, viewing them as a source of shame if unachieved? Elspeth Robertson, a registered clinical counselor and art therapist, highlights that resolutions often focus on negativity and change, whereas vision boards emphasize adding positivity and inspiration to your life. Unlike resolutions that demand giving up habits, vision boards aim to bring in new elements to enhance your life, instilling confidence rather than shame.
What is a vision board?
A vision board comprises images and text to envision a hopeful future. Instead of concentrating on stopping habits, it emphasizes the potential for the upcoming year. Elizabeth Mateer, a licensed mental health counselor associate, explains that vision boards “prime” your actions by exposing you to stimuli that influence your behavior. By being specific about your goals for 2024, a vision board helps you focus on creating the reality you desire, fostering hope, and alignment in your life.
How to make a vision board
Do it digitally
Follow TikTok creator Morgan Rhodes’ lead in bringing your vision board to life. Rhodes achieved every goal on her 2022 and 2023 vision boards. Embrace platforms like Pinterest and Canva to curate a board that inspires and uplifts you. Instead of viewing it as a chore like resolutions, assembling a collage of motivating images can feel like a creative expression. Choose pictures on Pinterest that resonate with you emotionally, providing motivation and courage throughout the year.
Once you have your images, you can use Canva to create a digital version of your vision board. Avoid striving for perfection; the layout doesn’t have to adhere to strict rules. Let it be a personalized creation that resonates with you. Remember, this vision board is your personal tool for growth.
Categorize and subcategorize
Segment your life into categories relevant to you, such as career, relationships, self-care, and travel. Delve deeper by breaking these categories into subcategories. Identify specific destinations to visit, lifestyle changes, or professional milestones. Search for images that reflect these aspirations, making your vision board detailed and tailored to your desires.
Be super specific
Precision is key in your vision board. Define the exact city you want to live in, the self-care practices you aim to adopt, or the ideal job scenario. Search for specific images on Pinterest that represent your goals vividly. Personalize your board to reflect your unique aspirations, bringing your dreams into sharper focus. Specificity enhances the effectiveness of your vision board in manifesting your desires.
Add affirmations
Counter the negativity often associated with resolutions by incorporating affirmations into your vision board alongside curated images. Theresa Cheung, an astrologist and dream expert, suggests using simple affirmations to reinforce your intentions throughout the year. Affirmations help reframe your beliefs about yourself and empower you to achieve your goals:
- Every day I take small steps toward my dreams.
- 2024 is the year to focus on what matters to me.
- I honor my needs over others’ expectations.
- I embrace challenges as opportunities for growth.
- I am grateful for who I am and strive to evolve.
- I choose positivity and self-empowerment.
- Success and happiness are my birthright.
Add your own photos
Psychologist Stephanie J. Wong recommends incorporating your own images on the vision board. Including photos of yourself engaged in activities you aspire to do or with people who inspire you can enhance the board’s impact. Highlight past experiences that align with your future goals to reinforce a positive mindset for the year ahead.
So I made my vision board…now what?
Be intentional about where you put it
Astrologer Jill Loftis recommends placing your vision board in a prominent location to charge it with manifestation energy. Whether as a screensaver, a printed piece, or part of a daily ritual, the intentional placement reinforces your commitment to your goals. Making a daily practice of viewing your vision board, reciting affirmations, and infusing intention into your space can aid in manifesting your desires.
Bring it into your meditation practice
Enhance the power of your vision board through meditation. By meditating with your vision board in view, you reinforce your conscious choices and positive intentions. Incorporating your board into meditative sessions allows you to focus on manifesting a brighter future by aligning your thoughts, feelings, and actions with your goals.
Make changes and adjustments as needed
Understand that your vision board is fluid and adaptable. As your goals evolve, feel free to modify the board to reflect your changing aspirations. Embrace growth and transformation throughout the year. Neville reminds us that vision boarding is about asking for what you desire, believing in your worthiness to receive it, and having faith in the universe to bring your hopes to fruition. In 2024, let your vision board be a steadfast companion in your journey towards happiness and success.
