Over the past 17 years, vision boarding has become an integral part of my life—a practice I’ve embraced personally and shared with countless others. My very first vision board was created out of sheer desperation. After experiencing three miscarriages and undergoing myriad interventions, I was at my lowest and willing to try anything to move out of the depths of despair. Inspired by watching The Secret in 2008, I dragged my long-suffering husband to the dining room table, and together we created my very first vision board.

A recent vision board of mine. Each piece means something significant. Each piece is there for me to revisit as a I pass by every day.

At the time, I knew nothing about neuroplasticity, neural pathways, or the incredible power of the mind. It just felt like magic as those dreams began turning into reality. Today, I understand the science behind the practice, and yet it still holds that same magical quality.

Here are some lessons I’ve gathered along the way:

1. Clarity from Chaos

When I first began vision boarding, I’d start by cutting out images and words that resonated, without overthinking. It often felt chaotic—piles of magazine clippings and no clear direction. But as I began arranging the pieces, patterns would emerge: values, dreams, and priorities I hadn’t consciously identified. This process has shown me that clarity often arises when we allow ourselves to explore freely and without judgement.

2. The Power of Possibility

There’s something profoundly inspiring about seeing your aspirations laid out before you. Vision boards serve as a visual reminder of what’s possible. Over the years, I’ve seen how they act as a compass—guiding both daily choices and long-term decisions towards alignment with what truly matters.

3. It’s Not About Perfection—It’s About Authenticity

A common misconception is that vision boards need to be beautiful or Instagram-worthy. In truth, my most impactful boards have often been messy and deeply personal.

They reflect not just my aspirations but also my essence—my quirks, fears, and unique perspective on the life I want to create.

4. Dreams Evolve

Looking back at my earliest boards, some goals now feel foreign, while others have been achieved and replaced by new ambitions. This evolution isn’t a sign of inconsistency but of growth. Vision boarding has taught me to embrace change and trust life’s unfolding, even when things don’t turn out the way I’d imagined.

5. Manifestation Requires Action

Vision boards aren’t magic wands. While they inspire and energise, they’re just the starting point. Turning dreams into reality demands consistent effort, courage, and a willingness to step into the unknown. The board is the map; action is the journey.

6. Community Amplifies the Experience

Some of my most treasured moments have come from leading vision board workshops.

There’s a special magic in creating alongside others—sharing dreams and witnessing one another’s hopes and breakthroughs. It’s a reminder that while we each have our own dreams, we’re not alone on the journey.

7. Gratitude is Key

One unexpected discovery has been the role of gratitude in vision boarding. Taking time to appreciate what’s already good in my life creates a foundation for dreaming bigger. Gratitude grounds me, reminding me that while dreaming is wonderful, so is cherishing the present moment.

Create a vision that makes you wanna jump out of bed in the morning.

8. The Magic of the Subconscious

There have been times I’ve forgotten about certain goals pinned to my vision board, only to realise months or years later that they’ve manifested. Vision boards tap into the subconscious, gently steering our decisions and behaviours towards alignment with our deepest desires.

9. It’s About the Journey, Not Just the Outcome

While achieving a vision is deeply rewarding, the true value lies in the process. Vision boarding encourages me to slow down, reflect, and connect with what truly matters. It’s as much about who I become on the journey as it is about reaching the destination.

10. Everyone’s Vision Board is Unique

No two vision boards are alike, and that’s the beauty of it. Each one is deeply personal, reflecting an individual’s unique aspirations, style, and story. This uniqueness is a celebration of the endless possibilities life holds for each of us.

Vision boarding has been so much more than a creative exercise for me; it’s a practice rooted in hope, intention, and self-discovery. Whether you’re new to vision boarding or a seasoned pro, remember this: your dreams are worth exploring, expressing, and pursuing—one image, one word, and one inspired step at a time.

What will your next vision board hold? The possibilities are endless.