We process information and gain knowledge in many different ways. Visual mapping is a way to intake information and overcome obstacles with different stimuli at the same time. You can use many mediums; I prefer art paper in a ring binding. Think of it as your very own flip chart!

I use both written word in my own handwriting and print letters or words, as well as photographs, magazine cut outs and fabrics. Let your imagination take you where it needs to go. P.S. It already knows the way!

Supplies needed:

Art paper, Poster Board or even copy paper will do. You just need an empty canvas!

Old magazines

Tape or Glue

Markers

Start with a “Time Frame” page. Use magazine photos to start creating your goal. This will be different for everyone. Only you can see your vision in the beginning!

You’ll need a “More or Less” page. Add pics of what you’d like to have more of in your life. A separate page for Less of can be good, too.

Have an “In the Moment” page. Speak to yourself in present tense. Use “I am” or “I strive for”. Act “as if” the goal has already been met, and speak to yourself accordingly!

You’ll need a “Healing” Page. You are worth the work! Write it down, and use images that resonate with your scars from the past. For many of us, this will be your most difficult page, and it will take you the longest amount of time. Take it in stages if necessary!

Have a page dedicated to “Inner and Outer Work.” Split right down the middle. It will remind you that you need balance when you see them at the same time. Inner work would encompass relationships, behaviors you’d like to change and self love issues. Outer work would be things that affect your health, social interactions or body image.

You need an “Idling” page for the time between creation of your vision and realization of your goal. This page reflects your strategies to keep you focused on your way. Use action words that are about self care.

The “Manifest” page! One of my favorites. Use images that pack a punch for you and spur you into action! Pictures of what you want to create in your life are helpful.

The “Fear” page. None of us want to do this one, but all of us need to face our fears in order to move through them and past them. Use images that shake you up a bit, then challenge that within yourself.

The “Overcome” page lays the groundwork for what you’ll do to counteract the fear when it shows itself. Use images of beautiful things, places or people that make you feel safe.

The “When I was Ten” page. Write down the words that described you at that age. YOUR perception, not what other people told you about yourself. Use images that give examples, i.e. a sword for brave or a giggling little girl for happy. Once again, select images that resonate with you! It’s a no brainer. You’ll know them the second that you see them!

The “My Confidence Changed When (person or people) Told me I was Someone Else” page. This is important, and it’s eye opening! You’ll be surprised at some of those pivotal people along the way. There will be more than one, to be certain. Shoot for at least five.

The “I am Determined to Take Back My (traits)” page. Write down the traits that you have allowed other to take from you, and snatch them back! Use all CAPS and big fonts. These are words that you really want to catch your eye!

These ideas will get you started. The sky is the limit as to how many pages you have and what they represent. When you complete your Visual Map, date it and sign it! It’s the start of your very own masterpiece! The real art comes when your vision becomes your reality.

Be Fabulous!

Laura