Business Expanding Vision Boards

I used to think that vision boards were hokey.

How could a piece of foam board with pictures glued to it help my business?

Well, I’ve come to find out a vision board serves as a very powerful focus tool.

I spent a Sunday evening cutting out words and images from magazines that reflected what I wanted for my business.

I selected images of successful business women who express heart and soul, words that inspire me, phrases that connect me to my desires for my business, and other pictures that expressed the integration of meaningful work with financial success.

I only cut out words that I had a powerful response to. Sometimes I cut out things that I thought I “should” cut out. I threw those away.

I was afraid it would look really bad. Like a 1^st grader put it together. But it turned into a piece of artwork that I now hang in my office. I work over the phone so no one sees it but me. (As a vision board is just for you – no one has to see it unless you want them too) It’s propped up on a little easel I got for $15 at Staples.

Here is what I’ve discovered about the power of a vision board.

1. It creates clarity

When I put together my vision board, I was clear, decisive and trusting of my desires.  I was in the FLOW. So now, doubt creeps into my mind about my work or my self-worth, I take a minute to revisit the pictures on my vision board and remind myself why I’m doing what I’m doing. Then I have the courage to send that reminder email promoting my next class.

2. It creates boundaries.

When opportunities that don’t match my vision show up in my life, with the help of what’s portrayed on my vision board, I can much more easily turn them down. Having a vision board helps me honor my self-empowering (and client serving) boundaries and encourages me to make decisions based on clarity versus need.

3. It creates focus.

Looking at my vision board helps me make decisions and take actions based on vision rather than doing whatever comes my way willy-nilly style. I ask myself, “is this in line with my vision?” It becomes clear what is and what isn’t.

4. It re-inspires.

In times of feeling disconnected from my work or feeling a little stuck, I look at my vision board and ask myself “who was I being when I put that together?” I was focused, creative, energized and decisive. So when I need a boost, it reminds me of what I envision for my business and I’m able to move forward based on this clarity. Essentially I borrow the confidence from the board.

There are three types of vision boards I recommend creating.

1. A vision board for business and what it means to you.
2. A vision board to highlight your ideal client profile.  
3. A vision board to answer what is the money for? Or what would you spend your money on? This is where you give meaning to your profit.

Start with #1. Alternatively, start with the one that you have the most energy for.

Creating Your Vision Board:

Step 1: Get Supplies.

Go to an office supply store and pick out three vision boards. Preferably colors that match your business or that represent something positive to you. You may also want to pick up a gluestick, something to prop (a mini-easel) or hang it up with. If you don’t have old magazines at home, purchase a few.

Step 2:  Schedule It.

Schedule your first vision board creation. Easy enough. This is a great after dinner activity.

Step 3:  Get Ready.

Gather old magazines from around the house or purchase the magazines you think your ideal clients read. Get scissors, water and put on a favorite CD or movie to listen too (Like The Secret) while you snip away.

Step 4: Release Perfection.

You don’t have to have your business all figured out to do this. Start with whatever you DO know and be willing to do what comes next that matches your vision. So you don’t have to fill up the board in one sitting. Add to your board as you gain clarity and watch it develop.

To your continued professional expansion,

Karin

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