When you think of a business plan for the new year, you probably think of pages of text and graphs and boring stats and numbers. You know, the kind of thing you’d nervously push across the desk to a bank officer in hopes of securing a loan.
I don’t know about you, but making a business plan usually falls at the bottom of my to-do list. Luckily, I have discovered a fun way to make a business plan and you can do it too!
The Business Plan That Isn’t
What if you could create a business plan with fun, colorful photos and inspirational quotes and phrases instead? What would that do for your daily motivation? That’s exactly what a vision board will do for you. By collecting images that represent your dreams and aspirations, you’ll have a constant reminder of where you’re going, and why you started your business. Maybe you wanted to spend more time with your kids, help take care of an aging parent, or have enough money to finally take that vacation to Europe. Or maybe you’ve always dreamed of owning a house in the country, or maybe a sporty little car has been calling your name.
While none of these things will fit into a traditional business plan, but they’re perfect for a vision board. Without your dreams, it’s nearly impossible to remain focused and on track when it comes to business growth, but with these visual reminders, it’s easy!
Why Vision Boards Work
Does all this feel pretty strange to you? You’re not alone. Lots of us were taught to believe that business was all about numbers and stats and formal plans and goals.
In fact, some of the most successful people in the world routinely use vision boards to help clarify their dreams and keep their goals front of mind. That’s why vision boards work so well. They allow you to easily see exactly what it is you’re working toward, whether it’s a shiny new car, a new home, or an exotic vacation.
By keeping visual reminders within sight, you’re constantly aware of your “why,” and where you want to go. That’s a powerful motivator, no matter what you’re working on.
Of course, no banker is going to accept your vision board as proof of viability and give you a loan based on it. But when it comes to clarifying your dreams, pinpointing your real goals, and getting excited about your business again, you can’t beat a personal, colorful vision board. Give it a try. You might just surprise yourself!