4 Things More Important Than a Vision Board
We live in a world where it is now custom to envision the future we want as one of the requirements for it to happen. And the tool most commonly used for this is a vision board.
A vision board, or a dream board, is usually a collage of images, affirmations and symbols of our dreams and desires, which serve as a source of motivation to work towards our goals.
Want a dream house? Get a picture of something similar and put it on the board. Want to be a millionaire in the next 5 years? Stick the picture of a rich girl in a Lamborghini on the board. You get the point.
Recently, I have come to question how effective a vision board is in helping us achieve our goals. Is it sufficient to have just a board that reminds you of all the wonderful things you want out of your life? I guess not.
Vision boards can work both ways, depending on how you see them. On the flip side, it could make you feel more discouraged when time keeps flying, and it seems the chances of getting that Lambo are getting slimmer. And let’s face it, not all our goals come through when we expect them to.
So, what should we focus on more than vision boards?
1. Habits
Habits are the foundation on which your goal-oriented actions are based. Imagine you have a vision board with an excellent body — no fupa (fat upper pubic area), toned legs, strong arms, etc. If you are not conditioned to wake up and be consistent with your exercise and/or diet, your dream body will remain a dream.
And I know people say things like “well, you can look at your vision board whenever you feel discouraged or need extra motivation”. But motivation from the board isn’t sufficient to make you lift those dumbbells.
2. Discipline
Discipline and habits are closely related. You need discipline to keep up with good habits. But beyond routine activities, you still need to be committed to other projects, like in your career, your relationships, finances, personal growth, etc. With surefire commitment, you’ll definitely increase your chances of achieving whatever is on the Board.
Some nights, stay up late and finish writing that article instead of sleeping early. Stay extra time in the office to see a project get completed. When you start a business, ensure you exhaust all possible options before you quit.
Wake up early and get things done.
And not just random things to cross of your to-do list. Be intentional with your activities, and ensure they are linked to your long term goals. This way, every time you look at your Board, you’re satisfied about the progress you’re making, and the dots will get connected eventually.
3. Decision making
I once read a quote in a blog article that said:
“Wherever you find yourself in 3 years is based on the decision that you made 3 years ago.”
Today has been shaped by the things you have previously said yes or no to. Decided not to eat right for the past 6 months? You’ll have an unhealthy body. Engaged in more career training and capacity building at work? You’ll be a highly valuable employee.
Saved and invested 30% of your income consistently since you started working? Your weal is most likely growing at an exponential level.
You must have the capacity and foresight to make decisions earlier on that will lead to the achievement of your goals. It’s not sufficient to know what you hope the end result will be and pin it on a board. Be actively part of the process, by following through on the small actions that will lead to big results.
4. A growth mindset
Not everybody has a clear picture of what their life will be at 23. I know I didn’t.
But one thing that I know most successful people have is a growth mindset. No matter where you are in life, even if you don’t have a clear picture of where next you should be, always make effort to be a better you.
No matter your current pay, work harder and earn more.
Do more things to improve your skill and knowledge.
Strive to improve the value you offer.
A growth mindset means you’re never stagnant. And yes, some people choose to remain in one place because they are content. But make sure you’re not using that as a cover-up for your fear of dreaming big.
Having a growth mindset has put me through amazing experiences that I never planned for at the beginning. Constantly strive to be the best of what you want to be, and you will naturally be grooming yourself up for success.
Thanks for reading! Don’t forget to leave your thoughts in the comments section.
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