written by Rebecca-Sophia Strong
Photo by Lavendula Peace
It’s easy to get bogged down in the day-to-day grind, especially when life feels overwhelming. Therapy often encourages us to look back and process the past, but it’s equally important to look forward—to the future we want to create for ourselves. Visualization is a tool that helps us imagine that future and move toward it in a healthy, positive way. For those experiencing anxiety, it can be particularly powerful in guiding us away from anxious thoughts and toward a peaceful, fulfilling future. Anxiety Therapy supports this process by helping you shift focus from worry to empowerment.
The brain responds to images and emotions in powerful ways. Having a clear, visual representation of what you want to achieve can bring those desires closer to reality. Whether it’s a feeling of peace, connection, health, or adventure, giving that feeling a face—an image you can see and connect with regularly—can help guide you on your journey toward fulfillment.
Creating Your Vision: A Simple and Powerful Process
To get started, take some time to create a vision for yourself. Imagine a picture of you in motion:
Perhaps you see yourself jumping up in the air, full of joy and excitement.
Or maybe it’s a quiet moment of calm with your hands together in meditation or prayer.
It could be an image of you sharing a heartfelt hug with a loved one, or laughing with friends or family.
These images can be abstract or concrete, but the key is to capture the essence of what fulfillment looks like to you. I invite you to make a vision board, but at the very least, find one image that resonates deeply with you.
What Does Fulfillment Look Like to You?
When you think about fulfillment, what comes to mind? Does it look like a family trip to the beach, a peaceful morning on the river, or a fresh haircut that makes you feel like a new person? Perhaps it’s re-establishing a connection with an old friend or nurturing a relationship with your spouse or children. It could even be a goal related to health—maybe you picture yourself in your best physical shape, with more energy and vitality.
Take time to reflect on what truly brings you joy and peace. What image represents your most desired future? Anxiety Therapy can also help you address any barriers that might be blocking your vision of fulfillment, such as stress, self-doubt, or fear.
The Power of Putting It into Practice
Once you have that one image, place it somewhere you’ll see it every day. It could be:
On your nightstand
In the back of your closet
On the front of your journal
This image will act as your North Star, guiding you toward your vision of fulfillment. In addition to the image, feel free to add a few words or phrases that amplify the meaning of that image. For example, if your vision is to be more physically fit, perhaps you want to add a phrase like "stronger every day" or "health and vitality." Words have power, too, and they can reinforce your intentions.
Making Your Vision Tangible
Here’s a simple, actionable step to take over the next two weeks:
Find or Create Your Image – This can be a photograph, an illustration, or even a piece of artwork. If your vision involves a previous version of yourself (for example, a time when you felt healthiest), consider using an old photo that symbolizes that state.
Print It Out or Cut It Out – Print out your image or cut it out from a magazine.
Find a Sacred Place for It – Place your image somewhere you’ll see it daily.
Seeing your vision every day will influence how you approach your life. Whether it’s making healthier choices or rekindling old relationships, these actions will bring you closer to your goals.
Moving Beyond the Image
As you move forward, remember that fulfillment isn’t always a fixed state. Your vision can evolve as you grow and change. One year, it may be focused on physical health; the next, it might be about fostering deeper connections with others. Don’t be afraid to adjust or change your vision as your life shifts.
Conclusion: Moving Forward with Intention
I’m excited to see how your vision image guides you toward a fulfilling future. The power of visualization is real, and when combined with focused intention, the possibilities are limitless. If you’re feeling bold, share a picture of your vision with me! I’d love to see how you’ve brought this idea to life.
Stay connected to your vision, stay motivated, and know that you are moving toward a life full of meaning, joy, and fulfillment. If you need support along the way, Anxiety Therapy can help you clear the mental space to fully embrace your vision and create lasting change.
If you want to learn more about Anxiety Therapy, click here.