Seasons: Ashes and Lent
It’s that time of year in the rhythm and ritual of the Christian Calander– 40-days; not counting Sunday’s – in which we prepare our hearts and minds for a season of introspection and remembrance. The time when we feast on King’s Cake and pancakes, plan for fish on Friday’s, and mark our days with considerations of giving up and taking up. I personally look forward to the celebrations leading up to the beginning of the season of Lent, the solemn service of Ash Wednesday, and tuna sub’s every Friday from a local pizza-sub-salad place down the street from my house. I enjoy finding a Lenten daily devotional that both challenges and inspires me. I truly find this to be the most impactful season of the year for both my faith and my personal growth.
Seasons shape our lives. They remind us of the passage of time, the rhythm of change, and the invitation to reflect. In the Church, the season of Lent stands as a sacred pause—a time to journey inward, confront our mortality, and embrace the call to renewal.
Lent begins with ashes. This Wednesday, on Ash Wednesday, we receive the sign of the cross in dust and hear the sobering words: Remember that you are dust, and to dust you shall return (I add: Go and serve our God). These ashes, a symbol of both mortality and repentance, connect us to the ancient practice of lament and longing. They remind us that life is fragile, fleeting, and yet deeply meaningful.
In many ways, Lent mirrors the changing seasons in nature. Just as winter strips the trees bare, Lent calls us to let go—of distractions, of excess, of anything that keeps us from drawing closer to God. It is a season of pruning, of surrender, and of making space for something new to take root.
Know this, Lent is not just about loss; it is about contemplation and transformation. It is about preparing the soil of our souls for resurrection and ascension. Through prayer, fasting, and acts of service, we cultivate a spirit of renewal. We step into the wilderness, trusting that even in barren places, God is at work.
As we journey through Lent, we may find ourselves carrying burdens—grief, doubt, weariness, unhelpful habits. The beauty of this season is that it does not ask us to ignore these struggles but to bring them before God, to name them, and to trust that healing is possible. The ashes we wear are not just a sign of death; they are a promise that even dust can be redeemed.
Spring follows winter. Easter follows Lent. Hope rises from the ashes. This is the rhythm of the Gospel—the promise that life is always being made new.
So, in this season of ashes and Lent, may we embrace the invitation to pause, to reflect, and to prepare our hearts for the resurrection yet to come.
Blessings on the journey –
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The Importance of Marking Time: Grief, Anniversaries, and Ritual
One year ago, in accordance and affirmed by the United Methodist Church Book of Discipline, I began a 4-month Renewal Leave where I continued to represent my appointment in various annual conference, jurisdictional, and general church matters – but, I was no longer 24/7 with the local church. Effective July 1st, 2024 I began my full-time Extension Ministry appointment to Chrysalis Counseling for Clergy as the Executive Director. The timing of my parting from my 9-year local church appointment – noting a cumulative 16-year local church ministry stint – was not anticipated, but not without conversation, my poignant request, and my consent either. Regardless, that day – 1-year ago – was a day full of institutional ritual followed by a year of deeply personal grief ritual, culminating to today’s first anniversary of metaphorically shaking my head and locking the gates.
Life is measured in moments—some joyful, some sorrowful, and many in between. When we experience loss, time itself can feel distorted. Days stretch endlessly or pass in a blur. Yet, amid the disorientation of grief, the act of marking time—acknowledging anniversaries, engaging in rituals, and holding space for remembrance—can be a profound and healing practice.
Anniversaries of loss – regardless of the type of loss – often arrive with an emotional weight, sometimes unexpectedly. Whether it’s the first year or a decade later, these milestones remind us of the depth of our love and the impact of our loss. Rather than avoiding these days, embracing them with intentionality can provide comfort. Lighting a candle, sharing memories, visiting a significant place, or engaging in acts of service can transform sorrow into a sacred act of remembrance.
Rituals provide structure when life feels chaotic. They allow us to express grief in meaningful ways, both individually and in community. In religious traditions, mourning practices—from saying Kaddish in Judaism to the Christian tradition of All Saints’ Day—create space for communal support. Personal rituals, such as journaling, listening to a favorite song, or preparing a favorite meal, can also offer solace. These practices help us remain connected while integrating memories into our ongoing narratives.
Grief is deeply personal, yet it is also universal. Acknowledging loss within a community reminds us that we do not grieve alone. Faith communities, support groups, and friendships provide the strength to navigate the journey of remembrance. Public memorials, candlelight vigils, and shared storytelling are ways we honor events, people, and moments that have shaped our lives.
Marking time through anniversaries and rituals does not mean dwelling in the past; rather, it allows us to carry our memories into the future. Each act of remembrance affirms who and what we are as a collective of the events and experiences of the past.
By making space for remembrance, we affirm that grief is not something to be rushed through or forgotten. It is part of the human experience, woven into the very fabric of time itself – and in marking time, we create moments of meaning, healing, and love.
Today, I attended church with my daughter. We followed worship with lunch, girl scout cookies, sharing of memories from our time with my former 24/7 local church appointment, and we remembered the joy we felt – and we laughed! Today was a good day.
May you too find joy and meaning in the marking of time, moments of grief, the recognition of anniversaries, and in rituals that heal.
Blessings on this journey,
Kelly
Lessons from the Beatitudes
This morning in church, the pastor spoke about the beauty and relevance in today’s world of the Beatitudes – which reminded me of a conversation I had a year or so ago with a colleague about the push to post the 10 Commandments in parts of the country in the public schools. Our conversation had turned to the question: “What if we as a society focused on the beatitudes and not so much the 10 Commandment as the beatitudes seek community and reconciliation where the 10 Commandments seem to go a different direction?”
For a quick refresher: The Beatitudes, found in Matthew 5:1-12, are among the most profound and countercultural teachings of Jesus. Spoken during the Sermon on the Mount, these blessings turn worldly values upside down, offering a vision of God’s kingdom that is marked by humility, mercy, and righteousness rather than power and wealth.
What lessons and reminders can we draw from these powerful statements of Jesus?
Blessed Are the Poor in Spirit
To be poor in spirit is an invitation to humility, acknowledging that we are not self-sufficient. This challenges a world that prizes self-reliance and independence.
Blessed Are Those Who Mourn
Grief is not something to be avoided or silenced. Jesus affirms that those who mourn will be comforted, reminding us that God is present in our suffering. This speaks to the power of empathy, encouraging us to walk alongside those who are hurting.
Blessed Are the Meek
In a culture that often rewards assertiveness and dominance, Jesus praises meekness. Meekness is not weakness but strength under control, a spirit of gentleness that refuses to seek power at the expense of others.
Blessed Are Those Who Hunger and Thirst for Righteousness
Righteousness is about more than personal holiness—it is a deep longing for justice and truth in the world. This Beatitude calls us to advocate for the oppressed and to pursue lives of integrity and love.
Blessed Are the Merciful
Mercy is a radical act in a world that often seeks revenge. Jesus reminds us that those who extend grace and forgiveness will also receive it. This lesson encourages us to practice compassion and empathy.
Blessed Are the Pure in Heart
Purity of heart challenges us to examine our motives and intentions, striving for a faith that is genuine rather than performative.
Blessed Are the Peacemakers
Jesus calls us to be peacemakers, not just peacekeepers. This means actively working toward reconciliation, healing, and justice rather than avoiding conflict.
Blessed Are Those Who Are Persecuted for Righteousness’ Sake
Jesus assures us that those who endure hardship for righteousness are not abandoned. This reminds us to remain steadfast in the name grace and peace, even in the face of opposition.
Living the Beatitudes Today
The Beatitudes are not just lofty ideals; they are an invitation to a radical way of living. They challenge us to embrace humility, seek justice, offer mercy, and pursue peace. In a world that often values power and self-interest, the lessons from the Beatitudes offers a different path—one that leads to peace, grace, and wholeness.
May we continue to reflect on these words and allow them to shape our lives, drawing closer to the heart of God and His vision for the world.
Blessings on the journey
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Performative Activism and the Faith Community: Whose Voice Are You Giving a Voice To?
This week, I was confronted by a dear friend with the term Performative Activism. This friend of mine – who does not claim Christianity but lives a more Christian life than many self-proclaiming Christians I know – contacted me to discuss what she has been witnessing as perceived Performative Activism demonstrated by countless activism walks and other signs of collective protest. To my friend’s point, in today’s world activism is more visible than ever. Social media, news outlets, and public demonstrations highlight causes that demand attention. But with this increased visibility comes an important question: Are we truly advocating for change, or are we simply performing activism to appear engaged?
Performative activism – much like missionary tourism – refers to actions that are taken more for appearance than for meaningful impact. It’s when individuals or groups speak out on an issue, not necessarily because they are committed to justice, but because it looks good to do so. The faith community is not immune to this tendency. Churches, ministries, and religious leaders may sometimes align with social justice causes in ways that are more about optics than transformation.
Posting a hashtag, sharing a quote from a prophetic voice, or issuing a statement in response to public outcry—while not inherently wrong—can fall short if they are not backed by sustained commitment. True advocacy requires moving beyond words into tangible action.
My friend’s question to me is a simple one: “Are you as a Christian leader just going to walk around in a circle with a t-shirt on, or are you actually going to do something?”
Faith communities and faith leaders are called to be more than just echoes of popular movements. The question we must ask ourselves is: Whose voice are we giving a voice to? Are we centering the marginalized, the oppressed, and those directly affected? Or are we amplifying voices that maintain comfort while avoiding real discomfort?
Jesus himself modeled what it means to stand with the vulnerable. He didn’t merely talk about justice—He embodied it. He ate with outcasts, challenged systems of power, and called for radical love in action. He did not ostracize those who stepped out of line or who aligned with the other – rather, Jesus taught his followers to stand in solidarity with the poor; to stand-up for those who colored outside the lines; and with those who resisted oppressive structures.
So, how can faith communities and faith leaders ensure they are engaging in authentic advocacy rather than performative activism?
- Listen First: Before speaking, listen to those directly affected. Build relationships, hear their experiences, and understand their needs.
- Commit to Action: Words must be followed by deeds. Advocacy should include tangible steps—financial support, community programs, policy changes, and direct service.
- Stay Engaged Beyond the Headlines: Advocacy is not a trend. Just because an issue fades from public discourse does not mean it no longer matters.
- Use Your Platform Responsibly: Faith communities often have influence. How are we using it? Are we giving space for marginalized voices to lead, or are we controlling the narrative?
- Reflect on Intentions: Are we advocating for justice because it is core to our faith, or because it is expected of us in a given moment?
- Remember – This is not about you…
Faith communities and leaders have the potential to be powerful forces for justice. But this requires moving beyond statements and into sustained, meaningful work. It means standing in the uncomfortable places, prioritizing the voices of the oppressed, and being willing to follow rather than lead when necessary.
If our activism is only for show, it is empty. But if it is rooted in the Gospel’s call to love, justice, grace, and mercy, then it has the power to change lives—not just ours, but those we are called to serve.
So, whose voice are you giving a voice to?
Blessings on the journey…
*Image designed by www.Freepik.com
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The Sacred Power of Creative Resistance
For many reasons, this past week has been a painfully challenging week for me. In seeking consult and comfort throughout the various tosses and turns of the week, I have been reminded of the privilege and importance of both my voice, the collective voice, and the significant power and privilege of creative resistance. Throughout history, voice and creativity has been a force of defiance, healing, and transformation. From the haunting strains of a cello played amidst the ruins of Sarajevo to the hymns sung on the steps of the Civil Rights Movement, the act of creating in the face of destruction is an act of sacred resistance.
Creative resistance is not merely about art—it is about the refusal to surrender one’s soul to despair. It is about bearing witness to suffering while declaring, in brushstrokes, melodies, and words, that love and beauty still matter. When the world seems overcome by violence and injustice, creativity becomes a candle in the darkness, a stubborn insistence that hope is not lost.
Consider the biblical prophets who used poetry and song to call people back to justice. Think of the enslaved communities in America who continue to sing spirituals, weaving their pain and hope into music that continues to carried them through suffering. Think of artists, poets, and musicians who, even in exile or imprisonment, refused to let oppression silence their voices.
Creative resistance is sacred because it taps into the divine impulse to create, redeem, and restore. In Genesis, we see a God who brings light out of chaos, shaping the void into a world teeming with life. In following this divine example, our creative acts—whether in art, activism, or simple gestures of kindness—participate in God’s ongoing work of renewal.
In a world that often seeks to dehumanize and divide, our creativity reminds us of our shared humanity. It calls us to see beauty in brokenness, to imagine a better future, and to stand, even when it feels futile, for what is right.
What is your form of creative resistance? Perhaps it is music, painting, poetry, or storytelling. Maybe it is the simple yet profound act of offering hospitality, of cooking a meal, of writing letters of encouragement. Whatever it may be, know that your creativity is more than self-expression—it is an act of defiance against despair and a proclamation that goodness still exists.
Remember this: The sacred power of creative resistance refuses to let darkness have the final word.
Blessings on the journey-
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Collectivist vs. Individualist: Respecting One Another
I see myself as a curious observer to the human experience. I have always found a great deal of satisfaction simply sitting and watching as others engage in life experiences. An observation which always holds truth, is that we as humans tend towards being collectivist or individualist – although we can play in both spaces, we are more comfortable in one over the other. These two frameworks influence how we perceive ourselves, our relationships, and our responsibilities to others. While both offer valuable perspectives, navigating the tension between them requires mutual understanding and respect.
Collectivist cultures and personalities prioritize the needs, goals, and well-being of the group—whether family, community, or nations—over individual desires. These societies often emphasize interdependence, shared responsibility, and harmony within the group. In these settings, decisions are often made with the group’s benefit in mind, and one’s identity is closely tied to their relationships and social roles.
Individualist cultures and personalities, on the other hand, prioritize personal autonomy, self-expression, and individual achievement. People are encouraged to pursue their own goals and define their identity independently of others. Western societies, such as those in the United States and many European nations, tend to lean toward individualism. Here, success is often measured by personal accomplishments, and self-reliance is highly valued.
Both collectivism and individualism have strengths and growing edges. Collectivist cultures and personalities can foster deep connections and a strong sense of belonging but may sometimes suppress individuality or creativity. Individualist cultures and personalities celebrate personal freedom and innovation but can risk promoting isolation or a lack of communal support.
An observation I often make, regardless of the setting, is when people from these different frameworks interact, misunderstandings can arise. For instance, someone from a collectivist culture might view a highly individualistic person as selfish or disconnected. Conversely, an individualist might see a collectivist as overly dependent or lacking initiative. These judgments are often rooted in cultural biases rather than an understanding of the values at play.
So, how can we bridge this gap? Here are some ways to foster mutual respect and understanding, regardless of the situation:
- Acknowledge Your Biases: Recognize that your cultural lens shapes how you see the world. Be open to the idea that other perspectives are equally valid.
- Seek to Understand: Take the time to learn about other cultural and personality-based frameworks. Ask questions with genuine curiosity rather than judgment.
- Appreciate the Strengths: Instead of focusing on perceived shortcomings, look for the strengths in both collectivist and individualist mindsets. For example, admire the sense of duty in collectivism and the courage in individuality.
- Adapt Communication: Respectful interaction requires adapting your communication style. For instance, an individualist might practice active listening and emphasize shared goals, while a collectivist might be more direct in expressing personal needs when necessary.
- Focus on Common Ground: Regardless of cultural differences, we all share a desire for connection, purpose, and respect. Highlight these universal values to build bridges.
The world is increasingly interconnected, bringing people from diverse cultural backgrounds into contact like never before. This offers an incredible opportunity to learn from one another and to create societies that balance individual freedom with collective well-being. By respecting and understanding the differences between collectivist and individualist mindsets, we can work toward a more harmonious and compassionate global community.
In the end, it’s not about choosing one perspective over the other – This is not a competition! Instead, it’s about recognizing the value of both and finding ways to honor and integrate them in our lives and relationships.
Blessings on this journey –
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The Art of Balance: Functioning Vs. Performing
Last week, I was sitting in my therapy room with a client who spoke candidly about their habit of over-functioning and their understood lack of performing. I was reminded that in today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to blur the line between functioning and performing – and I have often fallen into the whole of functioning while convincing myself I was performing. While these concepts are often used interchangeably, understanding their distinction can make a profound difference in how we approach our personal and professional lives – Otherwise known as The Art of Balance.
Functioning is the baseline of existence. It’s about doing what is necessary to get through the day. When we’re functioning, we’re meeting the bare minimum requirements of life. We’re attending meetings, responding to emails, and fulfilling basic responsibilities. Functioning keeps the engine running but often lacks intention, creativity, and a sense of purpose.
Signs you’re functioning:
- You’re checking tasks off a list but feeling emotionally or mentally drained.
- There’s a focus on avoiding mistakes rather than achieving excellence.
- Life feels like a series of obligations rather than opportunities.
Functioning often occurs during periods of stress or burnout. It’s a mode we slip into when resources—whether time, energy, or emotional capacity—are stretched thin. While functioning is necessary at times, staying in this mode for too long can lead to stagnation.
Performing, on the other hand, is about bringing intention, skill, and excellence to what we do. When we’re performing, we’re not just surviving—we’re thriving. Performing involves a sense of engagement and purpose. It’s about showing up fully, using our talents, and striving for our best.
Signs you’re performing:
- You approach tasks with creativity and enthusiasm.
- There’s a focus on growth and learning rather than just completion.
- You feel fulfilled and energized by your efforts.
Performing requires us to be present and invested. It often involves stepping out of our comfort zone and taking risks. Unlike functioning, performing is inherently sustainable because it’s rooted in passion and intentionality.
It’s important to note that functioning isn’t inherently negative. In fact, it’s a necessary part of life. We can’t always perform at our peak, and there are times when functioning is all we can manage—and that’s okay.
The key is to recognize when you’re stuck in functioning mode and intentionally shift toward performing when the opportunity arises. This might involve:
- Reflection: Taking time to assess your current state. Are you operating out of obligation or inspiration?
- Rest: Performance requires energy. Prioritize rest and self-care to recharge your creative and emotional reserves.
- Goal Setting: Set clear and meaningful goals that align with your values and passions.
- Support: Surround yourself with people who encourage and inspire you to perform at your best.
The journey from functioning to performing is not about perfection – it’s about progress. Both modes have their place, but living a fulfilled life often requires us to aim beyond just getting by. By cultivating awareness and intentionality, we can move from surviving to thriving, bringing our best selves to the world.
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The Holiness of No – A Practice in Self-Care
I was reminded this past week of a time I never said No – No to attending a meeting, No to attending a conference, No to rearranging my schedule and my own needs to fit the needs of another. This inability to say No had an great impact on me, and not the way I desired – It changed the way others invited me in; It altered the way I operated in my day-t0-day life; It had a profound effect on my physical, mental, and spiritual self. Saying No, felt like I was letting others down and ironically, by not saying No I was indeed letting others down, not to mention myself.
In a world that often equates busyness with success and self-sacrifice with virtue, saying No can feel uncomfortable, even selfish. Yet, learning to say No is not only an act of self-care, but also a spiritual practice—a way of honoring the sacred boundaries that God has woven into who we are.
From the very beginning, God modeled the holiness of limits and boundaries. In Genesis, we read of God creating the world in six days and resting on the seventh. That day of rest—that divine No to more work—was not an afterthought, but an integral part of creation itself. It set a rhythm, reminding us that we are not meant to be endlessly productive, but to live in balance and harmony.
Saying No can be an act of trust. When we decline an invitation, step back from an obligation, or pause a project, we are trusting that we do not need to be involved in every detail. We release the illusion of control and acknowledge that the world’s weight is not ours to bear alone.
Consider this: When we say “no” to something, what are we saying Yes to?
This practice is particularly vital for those in caregiving roles—parents, clergy, teachers, therapist, and anyone whose work centers on serving others. The constant demand to give can drain us to the point of compassion fatigue and burnout if we are not careful. By saying No, we create space to rest, recharge, and reconnect. In doing so, we ensure that our Yes comes from a place of abundance rather than depletion.
When we say No to overcommitment, we are saying Yes to meaningful relationships—to the quality time with family and friends that restores our very souls. When we say No to perfectionism, we are saying Yes to grace—to accepting ourselves as God’s beloved, sometimes messy, and always cherished. When we say No to constant busyness, we are saying Yes to rest—to honoring our bodies and spirits as the very pouring out to others of the Holy Spirit.
Of course, saying No isn’t easy. It requires discernment, courage, and support. We may fear disappointing others, missing opportunities, or being seen as less committed. When we frame our No as an affirmation for balance, it becomes a powerful witness. It says, “I trust in timing and provision. I honor the limits of my humanity. I choose to serve from a place of wholeness, not exhaustion.”
What might it look like for you to embrace the holiness of No in your own life? Perhaps it’s declining an extra responsibility at work, setting boundaries around your time, or saying No to the inner critic that demands perfection. Whatever it is, remember that your No is not a rejection but a redirection—an intentional choice to live fully, freely, and faithfully.
In saying No, we open ourselves to Yes to rest – Yes to renewal – Yes to us!
May we all have the wisdom and courage to embrace this sacred practice.
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It’s a Wrap! Year-End Review
As we close out another impactful year, it’s incredible to see how far Chrysalis has come since its inception in 2019. What started as a vision during my Doctor of Ministry (DMIN) project has grown into a thriving ministry that continues to make a difference in the lives of clergy across the United States.
Rolling Numbers Update
Since the first retreat in April 2019, Chrysalis has served:
- 162 individual clergy members through 15 Rest & Renewal Retreats:
- 2 retreats in 2019
- 1 retreat in 2020
- 2 retreats in 2021
- 2 retreats in 2022
- 3 retreats in 2023
- 5 retreats in 2024!
- 59 tele-mental health clients
- 32 clergy through three Covenant Group cycles
- 92 mental health therapists with continuing education units (CEUs/CUs)
- Launched a weekly Constant Contact point of connection with over 500 subscribers!
These numbers are more than statistics; they represent lives renewed, ministries revitalized, and communities strengthened.
Looking Ahead to 2025
We are entering 2025 with incredible momentum and anticipation for what lies ahead. Here are some exciting updates:
- 20 participants registered for our annual Cruise Retreat in January
- 9 new covenant members ready to embark on their journey towards mental health
- April Jemez Springs, NM retreat already at full capacity!
- 2 new retreats planned for Fall 2025
Goals for 2025
We remain committed to expanding programming and opportunities for clergy across the United States. With your support, we aim to:
- Continue to offer scholarships for all programming areas, including retreats, telehealth services, and CEU/CUs
- Introduce new initiatives to serve clergy in innovative and impactful ways
- Continue providing a safe and nurturing space for rest, renewal, and growth
Your Support Makes It All Possible
None of this would be possible without the generosity and partnership of people like you. As we reflect on 2024, we are deeply grateful for every prayer, contribution, and word of encouragement. You are an essential part of this journey, and with your help, we will continue to sustain and expand this vital ministry. Please follow the prompts on our website – Listed under the Solutions page/bottom of page (https://chrysaliscounselingforclergy.org) where you can pay directly with your credit card – and recurring if you wish – or, you are welcome to send a check in the mail if that is easier for you (808 Manzano St, NE Albuquerque, NM 87110).
Thank you for believing in the mission of Chrysalis “To provide holistic programs which equip leaders in ministry to obtain and sustain optimal mental, spiritual, and physical health”
and for walking alongside us as we serve those who serve others.
Here’s to a bright and hopeful 2025!
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What’s My Vision?
For the past three years, just as the year is ending a new year is on the horizon, my daughter and I have made a trip to the local craft store where we purchase a generous amount of miscellaneous supplies including stickers, markers, poster board, and decorative paper. Before returning to the house, we pick-up Starbucks and some snacks as we prepare to set the stage appropriately for our annual Vision Board extravaganza – including reflection time with our current Vision Boards and intention setting for our newest creations!
I find this process and time with my daughter to be a highlight of the year. Not only am I given a privileged view into my daughter’s dreams and aspirations for the year, I too am able to set an intention for my own dreams and aspirations for what is to come. I am always struck with the final product, and I am always taken back a bit during the vision board re-cap at the end of the year – a time I find so very telling!
As the New Year approaches, the air is filled with anticipation, reflection, and, for many, the hope of a fresh start. This season invites us to set resolutions, dream big, and visualize what’s to come. But let’s face it: New Year’s resolutions can often feel like a daunting laundry list—a mix of ambition and obligation that quickly becomes overwhelming. Enter vision boarding, a creative and inspiring way to approach the New Year.
I forgo the creation and concept of setting resolutions many years ago. For me, resolutions are often tied to specific, measurable goals—like losing 20 pounds, writing a book, or saving a certain amount of money. While these goals are commendable, they can feel rigid, and the pressure to meet them can lead to frustration if life takes an unexpected turn – as it so often does!
Vision boarding, on the other hand, is about dreaming without constraints. It allows us to tap into our creativity and align our aspirations with our values and passions. Think of it as giving yourself permission to explore the unencumbered side of your imagination.
In case you are not familiar with what a Vision Board is, it’s simple: A vision board is a collage of images, words, and symbols that represent your goals, dreams, and intentions. It’s less about creating a to-do list and more about visualizing the essence of what you want to experience in the coming year. Your board might include pictures of a dream vacation, words like courage or balance, or images that evoke a sense of joy and possibility. It’s your personal treasure map, crafted with creativity and anticipation.
A few tips on how to create a Vision Board:
- Set the Stage: Carve out time to reflect on what you want in the New Year. Light a candle, play your favorite music, or sit in silence for a bit.
- Gather Supplies: You’ll need a board (poster board, corkboard, etc); magazines; printed images; scissors; glue; and markers.
- Dream Freely: Think about different areas of your life—relationships, career, health, spirituality, adventure. Let your mind wander, and don’t be afraid to include unencumbered dreams that feel big and unconventional.
- Select and Assemble: Cut out images and words that resonate with you, and arrange them on your board. There’s no right or wrong way to do this—just let your intuition guide you. As you create your vision board, embrace your playful and adventurous spirit. What dreams do you want to chase? What goals could you tackle with strength? And what obstacles might you overcome with resilience? Allow your imagination to lead the way, and don’t shy away from dreams that seem wild or audacious.
- Place It Somewhere Visible: Your vision board is a living, breathing reminder of your goals and dreams. Put it somewhere you’ll see it regularly, whether that’s in your bedroom, office, or even your closet. Studies show that visualization can have a powerful impact on achieving goals. When we see something clearly in our minds, it activates our brain’s neural pathways, making the goal feel more tangible and achievable. Vision boards work because they remind us of what matters most, even on the days when life feels messy and complicated.
The beauty of vision boarding is that it shifts the focus from perfection to possibility. Instead of worrying about sticking to rigid resolutions, you’re invited to explore, dream, and co-create with the universe. So grab your scissors, your glue, and a stack of magazines. Let’s make this New Year a year of bold visions and boundless joy!
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