Vision boards are known as motivational tools, but they actually have a foundation in scientific and psychological principles. Research in neuroscience and psychology explains their potential for goal achievement. The TLDR is that their effectiveness is rooted in how our brains process visual information and how visualization techniques can influence our behavior and decision-making processes. From activating the Reticular Activating System (RAS) to engaging multiple neural pathways, vision boards tap into powerful cognitive processes.
Overall, visualization techniques have been shown to increase the likelihood of achieving goals by 1.4 to 2.5 times compared to those who don't use visualization. So while vision boards aren’t a magical solution, when accompanied by actionable steps, they can increase the likelihood of achieving our goals. Here are 8 tips to help you make your vision board for 2025:
Get Crystal Clear on Your Goals
Photo by Immo Wegmann on UnsplashVague goals lead to vague results. Instead of saying, “I want to be healthier,” get specific: “Run a 5K by June” or “Eat five servings of veggies daily,” and find images that represent those goals as clearly as possible. The clearer your goals, the easier it is for your brain to visualize them—and work toward them. Bonus: You’ll actually know when you’ve achieved them.
Make It Personal
Photo by Jovan Vasiljević on UnsplashYour vision board should feel like you. Skip the random stock photos of sunsets or yachts and choose images that hit you in the feels. Dream of running a marathon? Find a picture of the exact race you want to conquer. Saving for your first home? Use an image of a house that looks like the one you want. The more personal the connection, the more powerful the motivation.
Look for Actionable Images
Photo by Thought Catalog on UnsplashIt’s not all about the destination, so focus on the journey too. Alongside that dreamy vacation pic, add images of a packed suitcase or a savings tracker. Want to land your dream job? Throw in a picture of a polished résumé or a vision of you acing an interview. Highlighting the process reminds you that achieving goals takes work, and it also keeps you pumped for the ride.
Go Dual Mode: Physical and Digital
Photo by pure julia on UnsplashWhy limit your vision board to one format? Create a physical board for your desk or wall, and make a digital version for your phone or computer wallpaper. That way, whether you’re sipping coffee at home or scrolling on your lunch break, your goals are always front and center.
Keep It Fresh
Photo by Jovan Vasiljević on UnsplashYour vision board isn’t a static work of art, it’s a living, breathing tool. Set a reminder to check in with it every month and assess where you’re at. Have you hit some of your goals? Replace them with new ones. Has life taken a turn? Adjust accordingly. Keeping your board updated ensures it stays relevant and inspiring. It’s a work in progress, like all of us.
Add Words That Fire You Up
Photo by Stephen Harlan on UnsplashA killer quote or affirmation can be just as motivating as a picture. Think phrases like “I am unstoppable” or “Progress, not perfection.” Choose words that resonate with you and make you want to get moving. Sprinkle them in to keep your board as energizing as possible. These phrases and quotes will come in handy when you hit rough patches, which are unavoidable, and they will help you recenter yourself.
Mix Short-Term Wins with Long-Term Dreams
Photo by Diogo Cardoso on UnsplashBalance is key. Include quick wins (like drinking more water) alongside those big, pie-in-the-sky dreams (hello, beachside retirement home). Achieving the smaller goals builds momentum and keeps you fired up for the bigger ones. It’s all a process, every step gets you closer to everything you want to achieve.
Visualize the Journey, Not Just the Goal
Photo by madison lavern on UnsplashHere’s the secret sauce: it’s not just about the endgame. Picture yourself taking the steps to get there. Want to ace a half marathon? Add images of running shoes, training schedules, and your favorite running trail. By focusing your vision board on the process as much as the results, you’re training your brain to love the hustle, not just the finish line.
A vision board can be a powerful tool to keep your goals top of mind. So grab some magazines, open Pinterest, or start designing digitally. The future you’ve been dreaming of is just a vision board away. Let’s go!
