How do I set goals that stick and make a vision board that actually works?
- alisa lachman
- Oct 12, 2025
- 3 min read
Key Takeaways
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Why New Year's Resolution Often Fail?
Studies suggest that 92% of New Year's resolutions are abandoned by February.
It’s not uncommon for people to lose the excitement they had in early January; this is a major reason why they often lose sight of their initial resolution. Other common reasons include setting unrealistic goals, attempting to change too many things at once, and failing to track progress.
And here are the top reasons why:
Resolutions made because it's tradition are weaker than goals driven by real need.
No matter how small or straightforward the goal is, there is always a chance of an obstacle.
Setting up goals that are too big and are not trackable.
Add accountability: Studies show that people who not only write their goals but set up
a way to be accountable for them will be twice as likely to achieve them.
Goal‑Setting Methods That Actually Stick
To turn your big dreams into actionable steps, pair your vision board with proven goal‑setting frameworks. Below are several methods, each useful in different contexts:
Framework | How to use it? |
SMART
| SMART was popularized by George Doran (1981). Stands for: Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic, and Time-bound. Instead of "be healthier, "try: "Run three times a week and finish a half-marathon by Sept 1." Clear metrics and a deadline make progress easy to track and to adjust. |
PACT
| PACT is a method designed by Anne-Laure Le Cunff. Stands for: Purposeful, Actionable, Continuous, and Trackable. This method is for people who hate deadlines. Focus on a simple, purpose-driven habit and track how consistently you show up. |
WOOP
| WOOP is a simple method invented by psychologist Gabrielle Oettingen. Stands for: Wish, Outcome, Obstacle, Plan. Pick a real wish, picture the best result, name what could block you, then set an if-then statement: "When I finish work at 6, then I'll change and run for 20 minutes." It will help you dream big and prepare for roadblocks. |
MCII
| MCII is a method developed by psychologists Gabriele Oettingen and Peter M. Gollwitzer. Stands for: Mental, Contrasting, with Implementation, Intentions. Picture the goal, list the obstacles, then plan your response. Example: “If I’m tired, then I’ll study Spanish for 10 minutes instead of skipping.” Great for long-term goals because it keeps you motivated without getting complacent. |
How to Make a Vision Board That Actually Works?
Identify core goals
Choose 3-5 areas of your life you want to focus on, such as career, health, relationships, personal growth, or adventure.
Gather materials
For a physical board, you’ll need a poster board, magazines, scissors, glue, markers, and decorative tape. For a digital board, consider using apps like Canva or Milanote, or create your own vision board using Tessera.
Arrange intentionally
Place your most important goal at the center or top left (where your eye naturally goes). Group related images or mix themes based on what feels right. Use colors strategically: calm tones for focus, warm hues for energy.
Add metrics and deadlines
Write dates or numbers next to images to anchor your goals in time and make them measurable.
Display your board
Hang it where you will see it daily, in your bedroom, workspace, or living area. Photograph your board and use it as a phone or computer wallpaper for constant exposure.
Review and refresh regularly
Revisit your board at least once a year or whenever you feel your goals are changing. Remove items that no longer resonate and add new ones to reflect your evolving.
Pair with action plans
Implement frameworks like SMART, PACT, WOOP, or MCII to turn visual inspiration into tangible steps. Integrate your board with daily routines and checklists to ensure you’re moving from dreaming to doing.
Final thoughts
Big change doesn’t come from perfect plans; it comes from small, steady actions that you actually do. You should pick 1-2 measurable goals and review them each week. Use one of the methods (SMART, PACT, WOOP, MCII) so you will be setting up goals that stick. Let your vision board keep you focused, but let your habits move you forward.