It has become increasingly popular to craft vision boards as a means of envisioning and then actualizing one’s goals. Seemingly similar to the ever-popular vision board, reflection boards aid the maker in contemplating past life events that shape their impending future. Reflection boards mostly consist of personal photographs, cut-out magazines, and illustrated images that are either a literal or symbolic representation of a foreseeable goal. Periodically crafting a reflection board is a creative way for you to apply some of the proven effective techniques like goal creation and visualization that can ultimately lead you to live your best life.
Though this is true, studies indicate that reflecting on landmark events of the past, both negative and positive, is equally as transformative as visualizing goals. A research study tested the importance of self-reflection. The study found that not only does periodic self-reflection solidify the critical thinking skills that are necessary for achieving life goals but is effective in helping you to identify negative and positive life patterns. You can incorporate some visual representations into the process of self-reflection in a fun and meaningful way! Below are three different types of reflection boards that you can make when completing your self-reflection journey.
To create a Magazine Collage Reflection Board, you will need the following items:
- Corkboard/Whiteboard/Poster board
- Tape/pins/glue
- Stickers/markers/ribbons
- Magazines/photos/keepsakes
- Scissors
To create a Sticker Collage Reflection Board, you will need the following items:
- Corkboard/Whiteboard/Poster board
- Tape/pins/glue
- Stickers/markers/ribbons
- Planner stickers/ any other stickers
You can find the best planner stickers at the local craft store (like Michaels Craft store) or online in printable planner sticker shops like the ones found on Etsy. Use images as well that reflect important events of the past that you might want to reflect on. Arrange the images on a board however you like.
To create a Photo Collage Reflection Board, you will need the following items:
- Corkboard/Whiteboard/Poster board or online Photo collage template
- Tape/pins/glue
- Stickers/markers/ribbons
- Magazines/photos/keepsakes
- Scissors
I have utilized both the board photo collage reflection board and the electronic photo collage and find that they are equally as fun to make. For the board images of you and your friends that are reflective of certain events or symbolic of an era in your life. You can also use some magazine photos that depict what you are trying to convey. Cut and paste the pictures, as well as added elements like stickers to the corkboard, whiteboard, or poster board. The electronic photo collage requires you to use a photo collage template. Once you’ve found a feasible template, copy and paste the images into the boxes in any arrangement that you’d like.
You can customize the boards in any manner that you’d like! You might find that a board evokes a certain tone which manifests inspiration! Alternatively, some may want to reflect on past events that were not so positive but require closure or a preventive plan (using visuals) to discourage a repeat. Either way that you choose to use your reflection board, have fun and to our best lives!
