How to Make a Vision Board (That Actually Works)

Every year around this time, we start thinking about what we want next year to look like. More peace. Better health. Financial ease. Meaningful work. Time for family. A slower, happier life. A vision board isn’t magic—but when done right, it is powerful. And science actually agrees. Let’s talk about why vision boards work, how to create one, and how to avoid the common mistakes that make people give up on them.

Why Vision Boards Work (Science-Backed, Not Woo-Woo)

A vision board works because of how our brain is wired.

Here’s what research and psychology tell us:

1. Your Brain Loves Visual Cues

The brain processes visuals 60,000 times faster than text. When you repeatedly see images of what you want, your brain starts treating them as familiar and achievable—not distant dreams.

2. Reticular Activating System (RAS)

Your brain has a filter called the Reticular Activating System. When you focus on something consistently—like goals on a vision board—your RAS starts noticing opportunities related to it in daily life.

That’s why once you decide on a goal, you suddenly “see” chances everywhere.

3. Mental Rehearsal Improves Outcomes

Athletes use visualization to improve performance. When you imagine a future repeatedly, your brain starts building neural pathways as if it’s already happening—making action feel more natural and less scary.

Advantages of Having a Vision Board

A vision board is not about pressure or perfection. It’s about direction.

Here’s what it helps with:

• Clarity on what you actually want (not what others expect)

• Reduced decision fatigue

• Daily visual motivation without forcing yourself

• Better alignment between goals and actions

• Emotional connection to your goals (this part is key!)

Think of it as a gentle reminder, not a strict rulebook.

How to Make a Vision Board (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Reflect Before You Create

Before cutting pictures or opening Pinterest, pause.

Ask yourself:

• How do I want this new year to feel?

• What do I want more of?

• What do I want less of?

• What would make next year feel successful for me?

Write a few words like: calm, freedom, consistency, growth, joy.

This step sets the foundation.

Step 2: Choose Your Vision Board Style

Pick what feels easy and enjoyable:

• Physical board – chart paper, cork board, notebook

• Digital board – Canva, Pinterest, phone wallpaper

• Minimalist board – words, affirmations, simple images

There’s no “better” option. Consistency matters more than format.

Step 3: Select Areas of Life to Include

You don’t need everything. Keep it balanced.

Common areas:

• Health & energy

• Career or business

• Money & lifestyle

• Family & relationships

• Personal growth

• Travel or experiences

• Home & daily routines

Choose 4–6 areas max to avoid overwhelm.

Step 4: Add Images and Words That Feel Real

This is important:Your vision board should feel exciting but believable.

Instead of: “Become a millionaire overnight”

Try: Consistent income, Financial peace, Growing savings

Use:

• Images that spark emotion

• Words that calm or motivate you

• Quotes that feel grounding (not aggressive)

Step 5: Place It Where You’ll See It

A vision board works when it’s visible.

Good places:

• Near your workspace

• Inside your planner

• Phone or laptop wallpaper

• Bedroom wall (if it feels right)

Even seeing it for a few seconds daily is enough.

Things Required to Make a Vision Board

For a physical board:

• Chart paper / cork board / notebook

• Old magazines or printed images

• Scissors and glue

• Markers or pens

For a digital board:

• Canva or Pinterest

• A quiet 30 minutes

• Clear intention (more important than tools!)

General Do’s and Don’ts

Do’s

✔ Keep it personal

✔ Focus on feelings, not just achievements

✔ Update it if your priorities change

✔ Take small actions aligned with it

✔ Revisit it weekly or monthly

Don’ts

✖ Don’t copy someone else’s goals

✖ Don’t overload it with too many goals

✖ Don’t use fear-based or pressure-filled language

✖ Don’t expect instant results without action

✖ Don’t abandon it after January

A vision board isn’t about predicting the future. It’s about choosing a direction and gently reminding yourself of it—every day. You don’t need to hustle harder. You just need clarity, intention, and a little consistency. Start small. Stay kind to yourself. And let the new year unfold with purpose 🤍

Ready to create a vision board that actually feels aligned?

Download the Vision Board Worksheet to reflect, gain clarity, and design a vision that supports your goals—without overwhelm, but if cost is a concern, you’re welcome to reach out. Simply send an email to thesimplelifeco.com@gmail.com, and we’ll share a coupon code so you can access it for free.

Click below to download and start creating your 2026 vision with intention.