Happy New Year! The hustle and bustle of the holiday season is over and most people right about now are settling in to the next few cold winter months recovering from the partying, eating, overextending that they may have done during the holiday season. It sure feels good to relax with a simpler schedule. Although it may feel like spring is a long way off, the truth is that it will be here before we know it. Winter is a wonderful time to create for the new beginnings of spring. Now is the time to plant the seeds for your life’s new creations.
One way to do this is to create a vision map. A Vision Map is a very powerful tool that can help you bridge the gap between where you are and where you want to go. By spending time relaxing and searching for pictures, words, colors, or anything that represents or pleases you can become a very meditative experience. The mind relaxes and lets go; and the creative process begins. Think about what you want and find pictures or words that represent that. Spend some time thinking about your heart's desires whether it be travel, connection with loved ones, career changes, a new love, a new home, etc… the sky is the limit. Feel what it would feel like to have your heart's desire. Once you have connected with these feelings and the pictures that inspire you; arrange them on a poster board in a pleasing way. Your board becomes a collage of pleasing pictures, scenes, colors, and words that speak to you. You may be surprised by what is created. It can be fun to name your creation, i.e. serenity, new beginnings, fireworks, etc……Place it in a place where you can see it and enjoy it on a daily basis. Feel how good it feels to look at your creation. Notice what happens in time.
It may be a nice idea to get together with friends and or family and do your boards together. This is a wonderful project to do with your children. It will help them to focus on what is important for them and to sow the seeds for a positive future. Of course, if you enjoy the time alone, that is more than appropriate. Enjoy the quiet reflective time of winter.
Catherine Anesi, LCSW specializes in helping people transform their lives. She is a licensed clinical social worker and sees clients in her office in Croton. She also leads groups and retreats that aide in transformation. If you would like to contact her please email her at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or visit her website at www.catherineanesilcsw.com and facebook at Catherine Anesi, LCSW, RM
