We all have different motivations for personal growth and development, as well as varying measures of success, so it should come as no surprise that there just as many different avenues to explore within the self-improvement industry. From reading books to listening to podcasts to working with a coach who specializes in an area you wish to improve, there are seemingly unlimited resources and ways you can get support. There is definitely no shortage of options for self-improvement, but one thing remains pretty consistent: much of the self-improvement industry is focused on helping clients create and work towards specific and measurable goals in their attempt to grow.

While I certainly believe in the importance of goal-setting and goal-getting (specifically using the SMART goals method), what has made the biggest difference in my life and in many of my clients’ lives is taking the time to zoom out and establishing a grander vision for our lives first.

It can be really easy to get so hung up on the goals themselves that we lose sight of what we're even working towards! Just like in Google Maps, we need to know where we want to go, what we want out of life, and what we want our legacy to be BEFORE we start filling in the gaps with the individual goals that will help us get there. A strong and compelling vision helps spur us into action and makes facing our fears, or doubts, worth it. Our vision has to be compelling and inspiring enough for us to stick with it.

One thing that can help is creating a vision that includes a feeling state. For example, one of my dear clients created a very simple, yet inspiring vision that helped them wake up feeling happy every day. Another client wanted to work towards dressing in a style that made her feel good and increased her self-confidence, and another client wanted to be in love with her career.

Visions associated with positive thoughts, feelings, and emotions are meant to inspire and excite someone to keep working towards the individual goals that lead to the vision because they are anchored into a desirable emotional state.

One thing that's important to remember is as soon as you create a strong vision, your fears and blocks will inevitably come to the surface. This is normal and is actually welcomed in vision creation. If you don't have the same experience, this is usually a good indicator that your vision isn’t big enough, or that it won't help you expand beyond your current state.

I also often remind my clients that visions can change and should change as we continue to expand and grow physically, emotionally, and spiritually throughout our lives. Further, it is perfectly okay to change your vision if it is no longer in alignment or no longer lights you up inside.

One of my favorite things to do as a coach is to help someone create an authentically inspiring vision. I truly believe that we are all capable of creating the lives we want. The secret to making it happen is being open to creating a strong vision, and being willing to integrate all of the shadows that come up along the way. Creating your dream life can truly be your life's work.

So what do you want your ideal life to look like?

It is available to you if you are open to creating it.

If you would like some support in creating a strong and compelling vision for any or all areas of your life, I invite you to reach out to me so we can create it together.

Dream BIG and Mind Your Strength,

Melanie Shmois