I know this sounds corny, but I'm serious when I say this is a worthwhile endeavour. And I'm not referring to a Pinterest board. I mean sitting down to think about what's important to you in the future and visualizing what you want to happen. I suggest finding words and images in magazines that resonate with you and bringing visual and mental attention to them. I'm talking about utilizing the laws of attraction.
Yes, that means you will have to revert to paper: newspapers, magazines, books, mail advertisements. You could theoretically print images or words from your PC. I promise you will find what you need if you commit to the project. I often take the odd magazine or two from the lounge at the airport. Luckily, much of my vision board revolves around travel, making things easy. I've also pulled the odd page from magazines at the doctor's office or hair salon. A woman's got to do what a woman's got to do.
According to Jack Canfield “The brain will work tirelessly to achieve the statements you give your conscious mind. And when those statements are the affirmations and images of your goals, you’re destined to achieve them.”
A vision board can become your image of the future or a tangible representation of where you're going. It can represent your dreams, goals and ideal life. Humans respond very well to visual stimulation, so what better way to turn your ideas and dreams into reality than by looking at them daily?
Find pictures representing the experiences, possessions and feelings you wish to attract into your life. Focus on things that inspire you. Be creative. Think big. Put a picture of you somewhere on the board, and make sure it's a happy picture. You can include words, quotes or sayings that resonate with you. Affirmations are good as well because they act as a reminder of what's important and things upon which to focus.
You can do one board for your whole life where you include everything together. Alternatively, you can choose to do a specific board for each part of your life – for example, career, travel, etc.
Keep your board neat. Take your time. Avoid clutter and chaos. Your vision board should be organized and clear.
Once you have made your vision board, put it somewhere it will be seen multiple times a day. It's also important to look at your board before bedtime. The time right before we fall asleep is the most powerful because those thoughts replay in our subconscious mind as we sleep.
Over time, you will find your mind starts to focus on important things for which you are visually reminded. If you dream of taking a trip and look at that picture daily, you will naturally start to put things into action so your trip will happen.
Don't remove the pictures as your thoughts and dreams begin to manifest. Practice gratitude and let that be a positive reminder of the power of the exercise.
Here's an even better idea. Invite your best friends over and make a vision board together. Wine, laughter and friends – what better way to manifest positive vibes and outcomes?