What are vision boards?

You’ve probably heard of vision boards, but just in case you haven’t: A vision board is a collage of pictures, phrases, and words that represent what you want to be, do, or have in your life. The idea is that your imagination can trick the doubting, sometimes too logical, part of your brain—the part that makes you doubt yourself and keeps you from reaching for the life you want to have.

Vision boards are not merely a jumble of pictures and words; a vision board is an inspirational, motivational, aspirational tool to propel you toward your goals, dreams, and aspirations!

How do vision boards work?

By creating a visual representation of your vision, it helps bring positive change into your life by serving as a motivator. Looking at your vision board serves as a reminder of your goals, attracting what you desire by keeping the focus on positive thoughts and the energy needed to achieve those goals.

According to Psychology Today, “Vision boards may also help us imagine what a positive future could look like for us. Imagining a positive future is a helpful way to increase positive emotions and optimism. And positive emotions often create opportunities and increase the chances of success.”

For decades, sports psychologists have trained athletes to use visualization techniques, visualizing every aspect of their sport, including the feelings and sensations of winning. The same principles apply to vision boards—use them daily to visualize the future you want and treat it as if your vision has already come to fruition.

Transfer to the Classroom

After creating vision boards myself, I thought it would be fun for students to do the same. I’ve made vision boards with my students at various times in the school year, such as at the beginning of the year, after winter break, and even at the end of the year as students transition to the next grade.

To make the process easy and enjoyable for students, I’ve created a mini-unit, now available for sale on my website and on TPT: Making Vision Boards With Your Students.

The Process of Making Vision Boards

Day 1

• Ask students to envision their lives in five or ten years, considering personal aspects like health, career, spirituality, and relationships.
• Distribute brainstorming handouts to facilitate thinking about their significant visions.
• Show students sample vision boards for inspiration.
• Create a relaxed atmosphere with background music as they work.

Day 2

• Provide the “Open the Door To Your Vision – Journal or Jot” sheet.
• Explain each section, offering examples if needed.
• Encourage flexibility as students browse magazines or online sources, allowing for changes to their initial visions.

Day 3 & 4

• Have students revisit their brainstorming sheets to guide their image selection.
• Distribute magazines, scissors, and glue sticks.
• Instruct students to arrange words and images before gluing.

Day 5

Encourage students to share their vision boards in small groups or the whole class if comfortable.
Remind students to place their vision boards where they can see them daily for motivation.

Whether students choose to share or not, conduct a reflective journal piece to capture their remarkable responses.

Tips for Success:

• Invest ample time in the brainstorming sheets, providing numerous examples.
• Share sample images to give students an idea of what their vision boards can look like.
• Create your vision board to connect with students and emphasize that teachers have goals and aspirations too.
• Ensure a diverse selection of magazines, including those from dentists, doctor’s offices, and hair salons.
• Remind students that consistent reference to their vision board will help keep their goals in mind, motivating and encouraging them to reach for the stars!

Praise From Teachers:

Finally, explore some testimonials from teachers who have purchased Making Vision Boards With Your Students. The first review is particularly touching!

Final Words…

Making vision boards with your students not only makes a positive impact on their goal-setting and future considerations but also provides a fun opportunity to deepen your connection with them.

I encourage you to give Making Vision Boards With Your Students a chance! Both you and your students will love the experience. To purchase this resource, visit my TPT store or access it via Catch the Buzz Teaching.