Vision of Success

Vision is the foundation of any successful journey. If you do not know where you are going, how can you take the first step? Alternatively, if you do not have any passion or philosophy animating your actions, how can you know that the journey is meaningful?

When I envision success, I picture a tree. To me, success is growing tall toward the light while being sustained and grounded by roots. Success is looking toward the horizon for inspiration while swaying in the freedom of the wind. Success is becoming who you are and being authentic in every season. The decisions I make in my career, the way I carry myself each day, the vocations I pursue: I do my best to ensure that every choice I make in life resonates with my vision of success.

At this moment in life, my vision of success is intuitive and free. Other people define success in more concrete and specific terms - complete a Bachelor's degree, get a job as a nurse, travel to South America, buy a house, et cetera. Either approach works, whatever resonates with you at this time in your life. If this is the first time you are thinking about your vision of success, it will likely be easier to start with concrete and specific goals.

Your vision of success will likely transform and grow over time through new opportunities, life-changing experiences, and self-development. Great! From where you stand now, what is your vision of success?

How to create a vision board:

1. Picture yourself 20 years down the road, then write down answers to the following questions. What have you accomplished? What do you have? What do you do? Where do you live? How do other people to perceive you and your actions? What contributions have you made? How do you act? How do you feel?

2. Pick up a 20"x30" piece of sturdy paper, foam board, or card board.

3. Collect pictures, words, and phrases from magazines or your own albums that represent your vision.

4.  Make a collage or map on your board using these images. Use markers or paints to add color or words. Be creative with your vision!

5. Place your vision board somewhere you see it often. In a year or two, make another vision board!

A vision board created by a student in TRIO Summer Bridge