Dec 4, 2024
December is upon us, the last month of 2024! Many of us start thinking about our goals for the upcoming year. Vision boards—filled with inspiring images, quotes, and goals—have become a popular way to visualize our dreams and keep motivation high. They’re fun to create and can be powerful reminders of what we’re striving for. But how do we take those inspiring visions and make them a reality? As a licensed mental health counselor (LMHC), I believe therapy can play an essential role in turning dreams into achievable goals.
At their heart, vision boards help us articulate our hopes and dreams and make them feel more real. When we see our goals laid out visually, it can spark creativity, keep us motivated, and help us connect emotionally with what we want to achieve.
I first saw the power of vision boards when I used them as an activity in my teen groups. We would search for images and words that resonated with them and glue them onto boxes or boards. Each board or box would have an inner section for personal goals and an outer section for more outwardly focused ones. This process was not only a creative outlet but also a way for teens to bond and share their dreams, helping them get to know one another—and themselves—better. It was amazing to see how this activity sparked meaningful conversations and laid the groundwork for personal growth.
But here’s the question: How do we move from having a vision to taking action? This is where critical thinking and executive functioning come into play. Critical thinking helps us understand and evaluate our goals, while executive functioning involves planning, organizing, and following through with tasks. For many, especially those who find these skills challenging, turning dreams into action can feel overwhelming.
Therapy can be a game-changer. It’s a supportive space to develop the skills we need to take meaningful action. The first step is awareness. In therapy, we start by identifying what’s working well and what could use some extra support. This helps us set a clear direction and find ways to build on strengths.
Goal setting is the next step. We break down the big dreams from our vision boards into smaller, manageable SMART goals—Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. This approach gives a clear path forward and adds a sense of purpose.
Practical skills are also key. Whether it’s learning techniques for better organization, time management, or self-regulation, these skills can help you stay on track. For instance, mindfulness can be a great tool to manage emotions and stay focused. With these tools in place, you’ll feel more confident as you work toward your goals.
Creating a plan of action is vital for connecting vision with reality. In therapy, we work together to develop step-by-step plans that align with the goals on your vision board. Regular check-ins help keep you accountable, celebrate progress, and troubleshoot any challenges along the way.
Visualization isn’t just for inspiration; it’s also a powerful tool for planning. When clients visualize not just their end goals but also the steps needed to reach them, it strengthens the connection between dreaming and doing.
Many of my clients have seen real progress by pairing their vision boards with therapeutic support. Clients, who feel overwhelmed by their ambitions, learn to break down their goals into achievable tasks. With structured planning and consistent support, they were able to move forward with confidence.
As we celebrate the holiday season and reflect on the year behind us, it’s a great time to think about what you want for 2025. While vision boards are an inspiring start, real growth comes from taking those visions and making them a part of your daily life. Therapy can be a helpful partner in this journey, giving you the tools and support you need to turn your dreams into reality. So, let your vision board be more than just a beautiful display—let it be a springboard for action and success.