How to Make a Vision Board That Actually Works

A vision board is a collage of pictures and words that show the life you want. On its own, it is just pretty. Paired with a plan, it becomes a daily reminder of why you are doing the hard things.

Step 1: Pick 4 to 6 life areas

For example: money, faith, health, relationships, career or business, and home. Fewer areas means more focus.

Step 2: Write how you want to feel

Before you look for pictures, write one feeling for each area: safe, free, strong, peaceful, proud. Pick images that give you that feeling.

Step 3: Choose images and words that mean something

Use magazines, printed photos, your own pictures or quotes. Skip anything that looks nice but does not mean anything to you.

Step 4: Turn every picture into a goal

This is the step most people skip. Next to each image, write one specific goal and one first step. A picture of a beach becomes "Save $1,200 for a trip by August. First step: start the 52-week money challenge."

Step 5: Put it where you will see it daily

Inside your planner, on your mirror or as your phone wallpaper.

Step 6: Review it every month

At the start of each month, look at your board and ask: what did I move closer to? What is next? Update it as your life changes.

Vision board ideas

• A savings number written big, with a progress bar to color in.
• A verse or quote that keeps you steady.
• A picture of the home, car or business you are working toward.
• A photo of you at your happiest, as a reminder of who you are.
• A word for the year, such as "peace," "build" or "become."

The BECOME Binder has a two-page vision board right next to your dream life pages, goal plans and 12 month plans, so your vision and your next steps live in the same place.