Have you ever made a vision board? After several years of this practice, it’s become a refreshing and welcome routine for me; one that’s really helped me set an intention and ground myself throughout the year. I used to have an exhaustive list of resolutions (think bullets with sub-bullets) and it was overwhelming and guilt-inducing.
In the last few years, I’ve committed to living an intentional, authentic life, and honestly, I try to be kinder to myself. I choose one word to guide my intention for the year. There are many different ways to set the tone for the year, you just have to find what resonates and works for you.
Take Time to Reflect
The most important step for me in moving forward is reflecting on what I’ve learned. Some people have a daily ritual to help with this throughout the year–some people journal, some pray, some walk or run, some meditate. Find what works for you and aim to do it with regularity. And what works for you in one of life’s seasons may not work in another. That’s ok! Know that changing it up is just fine. As you reflect, here are questions that may help you dig deep into what you’ve learned:
- What were my greatest joys this year?
- What were my greatest challenges this year?
- What did I learn?
- How will I use what I learned and move forward?
As the year closes out, I go through my journal and photos. I think about the highs and lows of the year, the joys and the challenges. Both can be important indicators for unearthing your word or intention.
This isn’t something I’m able to do in one sitting, it’s a process. It may be helpful to set aside dedicated time and create a physical space for your reflection and inspiration. For me, it comes in writing, reflecting, and long walks.
Get Creative
It works for some people to gather with friends, or this may be a solo exercise for you. Make an event of it, do a mini getaway alone, or you could even do a virtual gathering.
Look back at your learnings from the previous year/period of time. Make a list of words that resonate, or jot down quotes, Bible verses, music lyrics, or phrases that speak to you. Use photographs, drawings, or images if that appeals to you. See what surfaces.
All you really need is a few basic craft supplies or you can do yours digitally (more about that in a bit). Many people do this with poster board, magazine cutouts, markers, and a glue stick. Or it can be a mini-book you keep beside your bed. It could be a painting. Any of these work– let creativity and intuition be your guide. The point is that it means something to you and keeps you grounded in your intention, theme, or word. Display it or keep it where you can see it all year long.
Having one word keeps me grounded in the overarching theme for my season and what I want to focus on for the year ahead. And it keeps this recovering perfectionist sane and free of unreasonable expectations.
My Digital Vision Board
Using a digital grid-style collage visual has worked well for me the last few years– here’s mine for 2021. My digital vision board serves as a reminder of my word and intention, things to keep top of mind, inspiring quotes/phrases, images, and photos. I put my word right in the center of the grid– this year my word is “light.”
I used Persnickity Prints to create my 18×24 collage and bought a simple white frame. It hangs above my desk in my office and serves as a daily reminder. Just a glance and a deep breath help me reflect and refocus.
Be prepared for your word to surprise you. In my year of “peace,” I became an activist. In my year of “clarity,” the waters became muddy. I think it’s one of the most beautiful things about life– it unfolds in unexpected ways and we are always learning.
How do you regroup for the New Year? I’d love to hear your tips.
Cheers to a brand new year and living with intention. Be kind to yourself, friends.
XOXO
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