The Transformative Power of Personal Vision Boards in Goal Setting

By: John Woods - Libertyville High School (IL)

Have you ever set a New Year's resolution only to see that resolution slip away over the next few weeks, while you sink back into your previously established routines? Don't worry. You are not alone.

The feeling of that initial excitement, or the feeling associated with setting a goal in the moment, will fade away. The initial motivation and enthusiasm can diminish over time, especially when faced with the inevitable difficulties and setbacks that accompany the pursuit of ambitious goals. Life will say to you, "You said you wanted it, now let's see how bad you really want it.”

Embracing obstacles and adversity becomes a powerful means of fortifying yourself when you genuinely believe in the goals you have established. Make adversity your advantage. Your goal has to be larger than the obstacles that get in your way along the journey. So how do you overcome the obstacles and adversity that life will hit you with?

Simon Sinek, in his book ‘Start With Why,' emphasizes the significance of having a compelling "why" behind your goals. By establishing a clear and compelling why, the how will take care of itself. When the initial excitement fades, and it will, a deep and meaningful reason for pursuing your goals can serve as a constant source of motivation, determination, and commitment. Successful goal achievement requires a commitment that goes beyond fleeting emotions. You must develop a mindset of discipline and consistency, stressing that commitment to the process is crucial even when the initial excitement wanes. But, you must have a process to commit to in order to remain committed to your goals.

You must first prioritize the importance of focusing on the journey rather than just the destination. By defining, appreciating, and finding fulfillment in the day-to-day efforts and improvements, you can maintain a sense of purpose and motivation, even when the initial excitement diminishes. Goal setting extends beyond the initial emotional high you felt when you established your goal. You must build resilience, stay committed to your goals, and find lasting motivation by connecting with a deeper sense of purpose.

The daily victories must be measured and documented throughout your journey. Measurement is motivation. When you track your progress, you will begin to recognize and celebrate the little daily behaviors that will lead you toward repeating the behaviors necessary to help you close the gap from where you are to where you want to go to what you want to achieve, and to whom you want to become along the way. So, how do you maintain a laser-like focus on the process? Start by creating a vision board.

The process of goal setting can be greatly enhanced and made more tangible through the creation of a personal vision board. A vision board is a visual representation of your aspirations and goals, utilizing images, words, and symbols to create a powerful visualization tool. The value of creating a personal vision board is an effective and motivating strategy for goal setting.

One of the primary advantages of crafting a personal vision board is its ability to bring clarity to your goals. In the fast-paced and often chaotic nature of life of athletic administration, you may find it challenging to articulate your long-term aspirations and desires. By compiling images and words that resonate with your dreams, you can gain a clearer understanding of what you truly want to achieve. This clarity serves as a guiding light, helping you to focus your energy and efforts towards specific, well-defined objectives.

Vision boards also serve as powerful sources of inspiration and motivation. When faced with challenges or setbacks, you can turn to your vision boards as visual reminders of the rewards that await them at the end of your journey. The emotional connection created through these visuals can reignite determination and enthusiasm, providing a constant source of encouragement. In essence, vision boards become personal cheerleaders, fostering a positive mindset essential for overcoming obstacles and staying committed to the pursuit of your goals.

Moreover, the act of physically creating a vision board fosters a sense of ownership and commitment. The process itself requires you to reflect on your values, priorities, and aspirations, promoting a deeper understanding of yourself. As you carefully select and arrange images and words, you become an active participant in shaping your own destinies. This hands-on approach creates a sense of accountability, making you more likely to remain dedicated to your goals.

The constant exposure to the board's contents reinforces the images in the mind, making it easier for you to manifest your aspirations into reality. This combination of visual and mental reinforcement creates a powerful synergy that propels you towards your desired outcomes.

The creation of a personal vision board is a valuable and transformative strategy for goal setting. Beyond its aesthetically pleasing nature, a vision board brings clarity to goals, serves as a motivational tool, fosters a sense of ownership, and enhances the power of visualization. By investing time and creativity into crafting a vision board, you not only set the stage for success but also cultivate a deep connection with your aspirations, turning dreams into achievable realities.