Vision boards have been a popular creative practice at the start of the year since the late 2000s. Most of the time, the first step is to look for pictures that inspire you on Pinterest and save them to your computer. Canva then puts those pictures together, usually as a desktop wallpaper.
A Digital Start to the Year
Many people now create digital vision boards using platforms such as Pinterest and Canva. The first step is usually to look for pictures that inspire you on Pinterest and save them to your computer. Canva then arranges those pictures, which are often set up as desktop backgrounds.
Once completed, the design can be downloaded and set as a desktop background. On Apple computers, users can upload the image through System Settings under the Wallpaper menu. Windows users can apply the image by selecting it as their desktop background. The result is a customized wallpaper filled with images that reflect personal goals or inspiration.
Digital vision boards are popular because they are easy to update, cost-effective, and visible throughout the day.
From Screen to Print
Some people choose to print their digital vision boards rather than display them on a screen. CVS and Walgreens are two examples of retail stores that offer photo printing services. This makes it cheap to turn a digital design into a physical copy. Prices usually start at less than a dollar, depending on the size and format.
People can make a real vision board with carefully chosen online images without having to buy magazines.
Hands-On Creativity
People still use magazines, poster boards, and markers to make vision boards. One part of this method is writing down goals by hand or cutting out pictures. Some people think it takes longer, but it’s still a hands-on choice for people who like to be creative and do things with their hands.
Gathering and Sharing Inspiration
People often get together at the beginning of the year to make vision boards in a social setting. These events can be planned activities for the whole community or just get-togethers with friends.
People also share vision boards a lot online. Content creators often make videos showing off their boards and talking about their themes. This helps the practice spread on sites like YouTube.
(Picture by Maria Cornejo)
A Creative Approach to Goal-Setting
People still use vision boards as a creative way to write down their goals instead of in a notebook. People can still use the practice to think about, plan, and show what they want to focus on this year, whether it’s in person or online.
Maria Cornejo is a Staff Writer and award-winning Photojournalist with Presence News based in the South Bay region of Los Angeles County. She regularly covers community events, entertainment, business, culture, and human-interest stories throughout Southern California, where her reporting has led to numerous invitations to local events and community gatherings. Maria began her journalism career at just 13 years old and has written for The Union Newspaper and Warrior Life Magazine. She is a graduate of California State University, Fullerton and is also the host of the Everything Entertainment & Inspiration podcast. Combining professional journalism with visual storytelling, Maria produces original reporting and photography that highlights the people, organizations, and events shaping the South Bay community. One of her most recognized contributions to Presence News is South Bay Galleria Isn’t Closing — Here’s What’s Actually Happening, one of the publication’s most-viewed articles. As a Staff Writer, Maria is committed to accurate, people-first journalism through firsthand reporting, original photography, and meaningful storytelling that informs and connects readers with their local communities. She can be contacted at: mariacornejo27@gmail.com More by Maria Cornejo
