Getting back into the swing of things for a new school year can be a jarring transition after a sun-soaked summer. Each school year comes with more challenges AND more opportunities, so the beginning of a new school year is the perfect time for students to check in with themselves via the creation of a vision board.
What do they want to learn? Are there any new skills or sports they are experiencing? Do they hope to make new friends, or audition for a play? Are they working to get better grades in math? Could they be a bit better with procrastination and study habits? Is there anything outside of their comfort zone they want to do, but are afraid to try? All of these questions are great things for students to be thinking about during these first weeks of school.
In combination with thinking about what a student’s goals for their education might be this year, it’s also important for them to reflect on their life outside of school. Students can, and should, take a mindful approach to self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and positive affirmation. There are numerous ways in which students can take a simple, active role in their own happiness and ability to set and achieve goals and live a life filled with joy and kindness. Grab a journal, start a document on the computer, use the template provided (if applicable), or get creative!
Creating Your Vision Board
There is a certain magic in making a vision board, and the secret to it lies in being very clear and specific in what you want from life, and the steps you need to take to get there. When you are making the vision board, it will live subconsciously in the back of your mind.
Cut out images and words from magazines, use doodles, or write down thoughts about where you want to go in life and this school year. There are no rules! Let your creativity flow and your imagination run wild.
With these words and images, you’ll create a vision board that shows all of your dreams and aspirations coming true. You can refer back to it throughout the year to see how far you’ve come.
Getting Started
- Write down a list of the things that are important to you. What goals do you want to accomplish in the next year? The next 5 years?
- Break out the craft supplies (magazines, construction paper, colored pencils/markers, stickers, etc.)
- Grab a “board” (could be a bulletin board, some cardboard, or even a single sheet of paper)
- Put together images that make you feel happy, that represent your dreams or goals, that inspire you.
- Make sure you put your finished vision board.
Blog written and researched by Joseph Maley Foundation Volunteer, Lauren Maley