Chapter 1: The Power of Vision Writing

Creating a vision for your life is not just a whimsical exercise; it’s a profound tool for manifesting your aspirations. The idea is straightforward: articulate your desires and observe how they unfold in reality. I have encountered this advice numerous times, yet I've realized that mere intention isn’t sufficient.

To truly harness the power of vision writing, you must consciously define your goals, commit them to paper, seek accountability from others, and maintain focus. This method has consistently proven effective for me—writing a clear vision.

I first engaged in this transformative practice in September 2020, a time when the world was gripped by the challenges of Covid-19, prompting deep introspection about my future. During a vision writing workshop with the Fast Forward group, I explored limiting beliefs and confronted the societal tendency toward negative thinking.

A vision entails documenting your intentions from a future perspective, as if you’ve already achieved them. For instance, write as if it’s September 2022, reflecting on your accomplishments over the past year.

I was encouraged to express a BOLD vision, emphasizing the ‘Whats’ rather than the ‘Hows.’ My aspirations encompassed both personal and professional realms. I envisioned relocating, embracing a new career, and enhancing my fitness through yoga.

Incredibly, I boldly stated my intention to move to another country in September 2020, and by July 2021, that dream became a reality.

Reflecting on my vision from that year, I wrote:

“On September 7, 2021, I feel immense gratitude for everything that has transpired in my life over the past year. I am engaged in meaningful work as a ____ in the ______Team at the Toronto office, and I truly love what I do.”

For 2022, my vision included:

“We have enjoyed numerous birding adventures this year, participating in bird hikes. I have also written extensively and painted the vibrant colors of fall.”

In reality, 2022 was fruitful; I engaged in extensive birding, published over ten articles on Medium, and took up watercolor painting.

Chapter 2: The Importance of Accountability

Understanding what truly matters to you is crucial. It involves prioritizing your goals and visualizing what the upcoming year will look like. An intriguing aspect of this process is the concept of "vision buddies"—individuals who hold you accountable and remind you of your written aspirations.

I routinely share my vision with my husband, my manager, and close friends. They are aware of my needs and help encourage me throughout the year, motivating me to evolve into a better version of myself.

The initial question in vision writing is pivotal:

One year from today, what does success look like for you? Who have you become, and what have you achieved in the past year?

This simple inquiry leads to deeper reflections, including:

1. What are you recognized for?
2. What have you accomplished? (Don’t stress; write what matters to you)
3. How have you grown and improved?
4. What is your perspective on life?

These questions are part of the Fast Forward group’s vision writing booklet. I recommend visiting their website for more insights.

I revisit my vision weekly. It serves as a guide when prioritizing tasks or making decisions. By aligning my actions with my vision, I know I’m on the path to happiness.

It’s important to remember that perfection isn’t the goal; even small steps toward my vision are meaningful. This practice has fundamentally changed my mindset over the past two years, and I’m already strategizing my vision for the next year. It has fostered a more intentional, reflective, and mindful approach to my time.

I hope this practice proves beneficial for you as well.

Explore how to write your vision and manifest your goals with motivation and clarity in this inspiring video.

Discover three essential steps to create a powerful vision for your life in this insightful video.