Vision Board
What Are the Types of Vision Boards?
A vision board keeps your goals in focus — but not every board works the same way. Here are the main types of vision boards, from the feng shui grid to the free-flowing dream board, plus how to pick the right one and which format to build it on.
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A vision board represents your goals, dreams and desires in a single visual place. It works as a manifestation tool by keeping your aspirations in focus and gently reminding you of what you are working towards.
But not every board works the same way. There are several types of vision board, and choosing the one that fits your current situation will help you reach the specific goals you care about. Below are the three main types by intention — followed by the different formats you can build them on. If you would rather skip the cutting and gluing, our ready-made templates give you a structured layout for each type.
Type 1: I know exactly what I want
This board suits people who have already clarified where they are heading and simply need a tool to visualise it. It turns clearly articulated mental images into an attractive collage. The most conventional choice here is the feng shui vision board — our step-by-step guide to making a feng shui vision board walks through every sector.
Use this vision board if:
- You have real clarity about your desires or life goals
- You want to change your surroundings or where you live
- You have a specific goal to accomplish, such as building a new home or launching a business
A classic vision board with an area for every part of life.
Type 2: I allow myself to dream
If you are not yet sure what you want across every area of life — or you simply feel like dreaming — the dream board is for you. This kind of board has no restrictions, so you can dive into your imagination and picture your ideal life. A mood board can stand in for a traditional vision board to spark creative thinking. For inspiration, browse our vision board examples.
Use this vision board if:
- You are not certain what you want
- You are moving through a difficult period or a loss
- You have only a rough vision for one or more areas of life
- You know you want change but cannot yet pin down how
A soft, beige-toned dream board.
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Type 3: The themed board
This board helps you visualise the wishes of a single life area with clear criteria and intentions. You might gather interior and neighbourhood pictures for your future home, or collect every travel dream in one place. It is a good idea to begin a themed board at a meaningful moment — the New Year or your birthday — when a fresh cycle starts and new energy feeds the board. That is exactly why so many people create a board for the year ahead.
Use this vision board if:
- You want to focus on one particular area of life, such as work and career, love and relationships or rest and travel
A themed board for health and fitness.
Vision boards by format
Vision boards can also be grouped by the material or medium you make them from — because a board should be as individual as you are. Once you have picked a type, gather what you need with our guide to vision board supplies.
Poster board. The classic approach: take paper in the size you want, plus scissors, glue, stickers and printed images, and start building. Our step-by-step guide covers the whole process.
Letter-size card. Its compact size is the advantage — fold it in half and tuck it into a planner or diary, or slip it into a frame.
Corkboard. This option is great because you can add to it gradually with pins. Hang it above your desk so it motivates you every day.
Notebook or journal with a wish list. Ideal for anyone who wants their goals close at hand while keeping them private. It is the most affordable option and takes very little preparation.
Digital board. A modern take on the vision board, made in a vision board app on your iPhone, iPad or laptop. It is easy to create and edit whenever you like — take a screenshot and set it as your wallpaper, or print it out. See how a digital vision board compares to paper.
Whichever type and format you choose, the goal is the same: a clear, daily reminder of the life you are building. Start from a ready-made template and simply fill in what matters most to you.
Frequently asked questions
How many types of vision board are there?
Broadly, three by intention: the goal-focused board (often a feng shui board) for people who know exactly what they want, the free-flowing dream board for exploring possibilities, and the themed board that zooms in on a single area of life. On top of that, boards vary by format — poster, letter-size card, corkboard, notebook or digital.
Which type of vision board should I choose?
Match the board to your current state. If your goals are clear, go with a structured feng shui board; if you are unsure or going through change, a dream board gives you room to explore; if you want to work on one area — say, career or travel — a themed board keeps you focused.
What is a dream board?
A dream board is a vision board with no rules or fixed sectors. Instead of mapping specific goals, you gather images and moods that inspire you, which makes it ideal when you are not yet sure what you want.
