There is no time like this present moment – when there is a great deal of emphasis on the many things we cannot do – to encourage the young people in our lives, and maybe ourselves, to engage in the creation of a vision board. Vision boards require us to focus on possibility. They can be individual projects, family projects or both. All you need to make them is a few dollar store art supplies (poster board, markers, scissors, glue), some old magazines and imagination.
Begin by taking some time to think about and talk with each other about the hopes and dreams you hold for your future(s). Questions like: what do you love to do, what activities energize you, what do you care about most in our community (or country, or world)? Then ask each other, what is the one big goal you want to achieve this year (or beyond)? The point of these conversations is to help stir your imaginations and get those creative thought juices flowing.
The next step is to search for, or make, a variety of images, symbols and words that will serve to keep your focus on the things you can and need to do to achieve this vision. Then, put these images, symbols and words together on a poster board to create a collage that will inspire your movement toward the life you imagine. Finally, place your collage in a spot where you can see it every day during the coming year.
A vision board is not magic – just because you make it, your dreams will not appear without any effort on your part. But a vision board can be magical, providing positive inspiration as you imagine your deepest desires more clearly and take the action steps that will move you toward these dreams.
Nadine J. Smet-Weiss, Community Liaison translated by Ana Villaman, Prevention Specialist
