Vision Board

                                                         My 2023 Vision Board

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Getting Started

As I move through 2023 I continue to look at my foundations and reflect on what I have enjoyed in the past so that I can purposefully work towards finding those activities that bring me joy and allow me to live life to the fullest. The year is a month in and I’m just finishing up my vision board. 

Some people may find this to be an easy task. For me, it was a challenge to separate myself from my family when thinking about things I enjoy. As long as I can remember, I have been wrapped up in what we would like as a whole or what my kids would enjoy. 

Family is so important to me and such a big part of who I am. I don’t want to lose that. However, I know as my kids age, I need to rediscover what I enjoy as a person, not just as a wife and mother.

I sat down and made a list. It was short. In part, because every time I wrote something I’d realize it revolved around family time so I’d remove it. It is difficult to break that cycle.

I went back in my head to my pre-marriage days to think about what I used to enjoy the most. What made me excited and lit a fire in me. Then, I removed the items that no longer speak to me. I was left with a short list but each is meaningful to me. The pictures sparked joy and excitement for the future. Each activity can be done by myself, with my husband, with family, or with friends. Doing this doesn’t mean I have to go solo unless I want to.

My Vision Board

Take a look at my vision board above. What do you see? I left off things I enjoy like reading, movies, etc. I focused on the more significant life experiences. Ones that I quit doing due to time or cost.

Here’s my list: travel, art museums, arts & crafts shows, concerts, live entertainment, plays, Broadway shows, time with other women building relationships, and time near the water.

When I look at the pictures above, I see the possibilities. We are going on a cruise for the first time this year. We would love to go to Ireland someday so that is a goal for me. I’m looking forward to time at the beach…the water is always calling me. I’m ready to get back out in the world and experience live venues again post-Covid. I’m wanting to build meaningful friendships with other women. I want to laugh and play and quit taking myself so seriously. 

Making The Vision A Reality

Here are a few things I’ve done since I started this journey. I went on a solo trip to Michigan for a weekend of family events. Took a road trip with my daughter and her bestie from Texas to New York. Started a book club with a small group of friends so we can work together on building meaningful relationships. Reorganized and purged almost every room in our house. Had breakfast and lunch dates with friends. Took time to just relax and gave myself permission to dream.

I have been purposeful in not leaving an event or meeting without putting another date to get together on the calendar instead of waiting for the next get-together to happen…eventually. 

I remind myself daily that my foundation is built on solid rock. I’m a constant work in progress. I’m taking time to enjoy the ups and downs of finding myself again. Delving deep isn’t all rainbows and unicorns. It’s hard work. But just like when I purge a closet and reorganize it, I feel refreshed and ready to take on the next challenge.

Have you made a vision board? I’d love for you to share it with me so I can encourage you in your journey!