.png){kind=logo}
We've all heard the advice that the first step to reaching a goal is to write it down. What about taking it a step further by using images to help define your future? After all, a picture is worth 1,000 words, right? This is the concept behind a "vision board," which is also referred to as a visualization tool that represents your dreams and goals, both personally and professionally.
Intrigued by the power of how clearly visualizing a goal can propel you toward it both individually and collectively, Team ZR set out to put it to the test. As part of the company's employee engagement strategy, the team gets together quarterly to work on professional development in order to meet their growth goals.
During the first quarter, Team ZR's development activity was to read the bestselling book Take the Stairs, by Rory Vaden, who writes that "we live in an 'escalator world' that's filled with 'short cuts,' 'quick fixes,' and distractions that make it all too easy to slide into procrastination, compromise, and mediocrity." To avoid the escalator style of life, the book promotes the use of vision boards to achieve true success. As a result, Team ZR created vision boards as a follow-up development activity and as a way to keep everyone accountable for their goals.
What Are the Benefits of Creating a Vision Board?
Selecting images of what you want to achieve and creating an opportunity to see them every day causes it to resonate in your mind subconsciously. In simple terms, it causes your brain to get to work in making it a reality. The brain consistently works to expand on what is in the subconscious. Our minds are proven to respond the strongest to visual stimulation. A picture of your future staring at you daily is a motivator worth 1,000 words.
It forces you to be specific about what you want to achieve.
It allows you to eliminate or say no to things that don't align with your vision and achieve faster results
.It serves as a tangible representation of your future.
How Do You Create a Vision Board?
First, decide the format you believe will draw the most inspiration into your life. While it doesn't have to be a physical board, it is recommended to have it some place you see every day, such as your cell phone or computer screensaver. Some examples of vision board formats include a poster, a Pinterest board, string and clothespins, or an art journal. Feel free to expand on these or even do your own thing!
Next, understand what you want to achieve. To move forward with clarity, it is best to be specific and selective. Find images in magazines, online, and wherever else you feel inspired. Adding personal touches, such as photos, postcards, mementos, or favorite quotes, can help keep you connected and drawn to the goals surrounding them.
One of the most important things to remember when creating your personal vision board is that there are no rules. Bring all of your personal or professional goals to life and create your vision board on your own terms.
Find images that represent or symbolize the experiences, feelings, people, and possessions you want to attract into your life.
Keep the vision board somewhere where you will see it every day as a reminder of where you're headed.
Share your vision board with others (e.g., family, friends, and co-workers) so they can encourage you to reach your goals.
See the Future Clearly with a Vision Board
Everyone can sit and dream about what success looks like down the road. But, one thing that rings true for all is that success is the result of self-discipline, dedication, and vision. At ZERORISK, we have a company culture that places a high value on team and personal development, which results in a high level of employee engagement and, ultimately, productivity. Simply put, we realize that the success of our employees is in direct correlation to the company's success.