Find out how vision boards can help mums stay focused, inspired and organised while turning big dreams into achievable goals.
As mums, it can sometimes feel like our dreams get pushed to the bottom of the pile. There seems to be endless rounds of other things to do, with very little time left to get to the things we have always wanted to do.
That’s where the powerful tool of vision boarding comes in. Vision boarding is a unique way to get focused, set clear goals and become the leader of your own life.
What is a vision board?
A vision board (also called a dream board or inspiration board) is quite simply a visual representation of your goals, dreams and personal values. It’s a space—physical or digital—where you assemble images, words and symbols that reflect your ideal life and where you want to head next. Whether you use a poster board pinned above your desk or a digital vision board template, your vision board serves as a daily reminder of your intentions and aspirations.
The proactive power of vision boarding
Vision boarding isn’t about using your thoughts to make your dreams and desires come true. It’s simply a proactive act: You’re working towards your goals and dreams with intention. Proactivity, according to the best-selling book by Stephen Covey, The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People, is about taking responsibility for your life and making things happen, rather than waiting for life to happen to you.
A vision board helps you to:
- Focus on what you can control, what is within your circle of influence and what you can change.
- Visualise your best life. By having a bigger picture in mind, you can get clear on the steps you need to make toward meaningful change.
- Take action. Vision boarding is not just about dreaming. It’s about creating a plan and building momentum for your ideal life.
We often miss opportunities because we don’t think we’re good enough or worthy enough. Sometimes, we take important feedback as negativity and barricade our own efforts towards success because of our limiting perspectives.
Avoid self-fulfilling prophecies
You can’t take real action towards a dream you don’t believe is possible. While spiritual people may believe in a higher power who can speak softly to our consciousness and guide us towards new convictions and truth, we can sometimes sabotage ourselves based on our perspectives.
Your brain can sort your experiences according to your beliefs, filtering your reality to match those beliefs. Just like your social media feed is an echo chamber of all the things you’ve previously searched or consistently watch, your brain can often do the same, showing you only the evidence that suits your beliefs.
What we actually believe about ourselves can become a self-fulfilling prophecy. It’s the same reason why we shouldn’t label our children—even with seemingly harmless labels. When we’re not open to other alternatives, we become incapable of noticing anything else. If our internal “algorithm” is set to negativity, scarcity and unworthiness, we’ll never notice all the evidence against it, like a person whose internal algorithm is set to positivity, joy and self-belief would.
So, while you’re thinking of your vision board, also start trying to practise being self-aware, noticing your thoughts, your actions, your words and your beliefs. Remember, you are not a tree; you can move. If you have beliefs that aren’t serving you well, you can always change them.
Types of vision boards
There’s no one “right” way to create a vision board, but it’s important to use what inspires you!
| Vision board type | Description |
|---|---|
| Physical vision board | Made with poster board, images, glue sticks and inspirational words. Place it somewhere visible. |
| Digital vision board | Built on your phone, tablet or computer using images and words. Great for tech-savvy mums or those short on space. |
| Goal board | Focuses on specific short-term, long-term or big goals, perfect for proactive, goal-oriented mums. |
| Bulletin board vision board | Allows for easy updates as your visions evolve. Pin up new dreams or switch things out as needed. |
Whether you prefer a physical board or a digital version, the foundation to it all is to be intensely clear and intentional. Don’t fill your board with things that simply look impressive or trendy; focus on what truly matters to you, your vision, your dreams and your goals.
This board is meant for you, so don’t get sidetracked trying to design it for someone else’s approval or start feeling guilty as if your dreams don’t matter or are selfish. You matter and so do your dreams. You’re not defined solely by your roles as mum or wife; you are an individual with your own unique goals, perspectives and aspirations, all of which deserve your intention and care.
Vision board ideas
Here are some creative vision board ideas for mums eager to take charge of their dreams. Include both long-term and short-term goals, and don’t be afraid to dream big or focus on different areas of life.
Wellness and self-care
Pin words and images that remind you to make time for your health and emotional wellbeing.
Financial freedom
Use symbols or numbers that represent achieving smart goals like savings, investments or debt-free living.
Career goals
Illustrate your dream job, business ideas or professional development courses.
Personal values
Highlight what matters most to you: Kindness, adventure, learning, creativity.
Family dreams
Include images of family holidays, happy moments or future milestones.
How to create a vision board: A step-by-step guide
Ready to create your own goal board? Follow this simple vision board checklist:
1. Set aside time
Scheduling time for your vision board work shows you value your dreams as much as the things you do for everyone else.
2. Brain dump your dreams
Jot down everything you want in life: Career, relationships, health, fun, the bigger picture and different goals for different areas.
3. Find images and words
Gather magazines, print photos or save digital images that excite and motivate you. Select inspirational words and quotes reflecting your personal vision and clear direction.
4. Choose your board
Decide on a physical vision board or a digital vision board.
5. Arrange and attach
Place your images and words, grouping similar goals with a flow that’s instantly recognisable for your brain and makes sense to you each time you see it.
6. Review and reflect
Spend a few minutes daily with your board. Let it inspire action toward your ideal life.
7. Update as needed
Life changes and so will your dreams. Review your board every few months, add or remove images, goals or inspirational words as your personal goals shift.
Why vision boards work
Vision boards are more than just pretty collages. When you see your goals visualised every day, you train your mind to focus on them. Science shows that visual cues help people stay motivated and take proactive steps toward goal-setting, turning dreams into actionable plans.
- You remind yourself to pursue your goals, even on tough days.
- The images and words keep your motivation high.
- Your board acts as a compass for decision-making, helping you prioritise what matters.
Vision board workshops and vision board parties are also a fun, social way to connect with others. Sharing your dreams and supporting others builds accountability and ideas for how to make your board a reality.
FAQs: Vision boarding for mums
Q: Is a vision board just arts and crafts?
A: No. While it’s creative, vision board work is a strategic part of living proactively, setting clear direction, and achieving personal and family goals.
Q: I’m not artistic, what if my board isn’t perfect?
A: Focus on what inspires you. The best life starts with clear intentions, not perfection. A simple inspiration board filled with your personal values is just as powerful as a complex, decorative one.
Q: How often should I update my board?
A: Whenever your dreams, goals or life direction change. Many mums refresh their boards each year or after major life events.
Every mum deserves to chase her dreams, nurture her ambitions, and create an ideal life for herself and her family. Use vision boarding as a springboard for your next chapter and watch as the proactive action you take transforms your life.
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