5 simple steps to writing a vision statement that actually works

It’s that time of year again: the old year is winding down and everyone is gearing up for an incredible new year. Now is a very natural time to sit down and reflect upon your successes of this year and also upon the way you’d like your life to look for 2014. Here are 5 simple steps to writing a vision statement that inspires and uplifts you:

1. Be very clear in what you want for next year. Vague longings and desires do nothing to inspire, uplift, or engage the universe. “I want better health, more money or balance” is way too general. We all want that! What do you want specifically? How much money do you want? Write the dollar amount down. Does better health include no more headaches or backaches? Write it down.
2. Write your vision statement in the present tense. The universe is very specific and literal. If you send out the signal of ” I want this and that” you will get back the experience of “wanting this and that.” Instead, write “I enjoy a healthy body, with a strong back and a clear head that’s free from any pain.”
3. Write it in the positive, from the angle of gratitude. “I feel so humble and grateful that I have plenty of money to pay all my obligations easily and effortlessly every month” is much more powerful than “I don’t have any debt.”
4. Include all areas of your life. If you’re looking for balance (and who isn’t, these days?) be sure to write about all areas, and not just money. I include  my health/body image, family relationships, finances, business, and relationship with God. I’d pick 5 to focus on. It’s easier if your vision statement points are kept to one hand.
5. Include all your senses in your vision statement. How does it feel? What does it look like, taste like, smell like, sound like? When I envision my finances it feels like enormous relief, looks like ease when paying all bills, tastes like eating out once a week with my husband, smells like peppermint essential oil diffusing through my house and sounds like lighthearted laughter when unexpected expenses crop up. Isn’t that much more engaging than “I can pay my bills every month.”?

Write it down, say it out loud daily for 60 days, and watch miracles unfold in your life that are perfectly aligned with your vision statement. Oh, and give yourself permission to be flexible with your statement. Sometimes we want to tweak it a little. No problem. The universe is fluid and wants you to be in the flow as well. And when you know what you’re flowing toward, being in the flow is truly a magical experience!