The Secret Tool Successful People Swear By to Crush Their Goals

Let’s get real: life can feel like a nonstop sprint, with a million to-dos and barely any time to actually focus on you. But what if I told you there’s a ridiculously simple way to pause, reflect, and actually get clear on what you want? And bonus—it’s creative, fun, and backed by science.

Enter a tool that not only helps you map out your dreams but also trains your brain to start making them happen. Yes, science says when you visualize something—whether it’s a goal, a feeling, or even that dream beach vacation—it activates your brain’s Reticular Activating System (RAS). Translation? Your brain starts filtering out distractions and noticing opportunities that align with your vision. It’s like manifesting, but with receipts.

So, how do you tap into this magical power of visualization? Spoiler: it doesn’t involve journaling for hours or creating an aesthetic masterpiece. In fact, there’s no right or wrong way to do it—just some glue, magazines, and a little permission to dream big. Drawing on the expertise of Jenny Mayo—certified meditation teacher, yoga instructor, and founder of Jenny Mayo Mind & Movement—we’re diving into her ultimate guide for turning your hopes, goals, and even those dreamy “what ifs” into something tangible. Jenny’s approach is all about blending creativity, intention, and mindfulness to help you create a daily reminder of what matters most.

Ready? Let’s dive in.

Why This Practice Works (Hint: Science + Soul)

Before we dive into the how-to, let’s talk about why this simple practice is such a game-changer. Jenny says, “The process allows your soul to share messages your conscious brain may not be picking up on.” Basically, it’s a moment for your inner self to tell you what’s up—and that’s where the magic lies. But it’s not just woo-woo stuff. Science backs it up too. Visualization has been shown to activate the same neural pathways as physically doing something, which is why athletes often use it to prep for big games. Think of this as mental prep for your best life.

Here’s why it’s worth your time:

The No-Fail Guide to Bringing Your Vision to Life

This isn’t about creating a Pinterest-worthy masterpiece; it’s about tapping into what your soul truly needs. Here’s Jenny’s expert step-by-step guide for creating something meaningful.

1. Raid Your Magazines Like a Pro

“Start with what you’ve got,” Jenny advises. Grab old magazines you already have lying around. If you need more, check with friends, family, or even your local Buy Nothing group. Jenny’s personal favorites? Oprah Magazine, travel mags, and anything wellness-related.

2. Find Your Happy Place

Jenny suggests a cozy setup with plenty of space. “An 11 x 14-inch poster board works best,” she says, “because it’s big enough to fit your ideas but not overwhelming.” Whether it’s the kitchen table or the floor with a cushion, make it somewhere you can spread out and get into the zone.

3. Reflect Like a Boss

Before you start cutting, take a moment to ask yourself the big questions. Jenny recommends journaling or meditating on these prompts:

• How do I want to feel in this next season of my life?
• What do I want more of?
• Where do I want to go—literally or figuratively?
  “Giving yourself this time to reflect makes the process so much more intentional,” Jenny adds.

4. Rip, Snip, and Let Go of Perfection

Jenny’s best advice? “Don’t overthink it. If something catches your eye, tear it out!” She also encourages ditching the scissors if you feel like it: “Letting the edges be raw and imperfect can actually be incredibly freeing.”

5. Add Your Personal Touches

This is where you can get creative. Jenny suggests adding personal photos, handwritten quotes, or even lyrics from a song that inspires you. “If you can’t find the perfect word in a magazine, piece it together ransom-note style—it’s part of the fun,” she says. Glitter glue and colorful tissue paper? Totally optional, but why not?

6. Lay It All Out (Before You Commit)

Jenny likes to arrange everything before reaching for the glue stick. “It’s a way to play with the layout and see what feels right,” she says. Once you’re happy, start gluing—whether it’s all at once or section by section.

7. Reflect on Your Finished Masterpiece

Once everything’s in place, Jenny recommends spending a few minutes reflecting on your board. “What themes are coming through? Are there any surprises?” she asks. Sharing your board with a friend or journaling about it can help you process the insights even further.

Where to Put It (Because This Part Really Matters)

At the end of the day, this practice isn’t about being perfect or creating the “prettiest” collage. It’s about giving yourself permission to dream, explore, and connect with what truly matters to you. As Jenny says, “Your vision board is a reflection of your soul—it’s a reminder of what lights you up and what you’re working toward.”

So grab your magazines, glue stick, and a healthy dose of curiosity. You might just be surprised by what you discover.

For even more tips and insights, check out Jenny’s full article here.