5 Therapist-Approved Ways Black Women Can Use Vision Boards, Affirmations and Manifestos to Actualize their Higher Selves

The typical approach to decorating a space is to fill an "empty wall" or "add some color" to a room. However, with vision boards, affirmations, and manifestos there needs to be a more purposeful approach to where you place these décor pieces and how you interact with them on a daily basis.

Here are five therapist-approved ways Black women can use vision boards, affirmations, and manifestos to actualize their higher selves:

1. Place your vision board somewhere that you can see it 

"Vision boards are a tangible representation of what’s possible," says Certified Abundance Mindset Coach Brittany Fagan. "We need this proof to chip away at our limitation mindset and allow us to believe something more abundant for ourselves."

2. Make your affirmations a part of your morning routine

When you wake up in the morning, it's vitally important to find time for yourself.

According to Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor and National Certified Counselor, Montina Myers-Galloway, "emotional support and encouragement in the form of daily affirmations can positively impact self-commitment and self-esteem for Black women. It’s more than positive thinking. Repeatedly verbalizing out loud what you choose to believe about yourself can lead to a change in behavior but most importantly a change in mindset." 

3. Interact with your pieces

Designing a home that designs you, isn't just about creating a space that exudes luxury. It's about creating a space where you can foster habits that will help you actualize your higher self.

"When you combine daily affirmations (auditory), vision boards (visual), and repetition (habit) you tap into your subconscious," says Kiara McNair, LMFT. "Visualizing and telling yourself a different outcome helps you to begin rewiring your subconscious mind to think more positively."

4. Make your manifesto a part of your daily routine

Hang your manifesto in your entryway or by your front door, so you can see it when you enter and leave your house. It'll become a guideline for those entering your space and a reminder as you enter the world.

"Manifestos... keep us focused on the core tenets we want to guide our lives. You must place (them) in places where you will see them daily to reinforce the message," says Montina Myers-Galloway.

5. Incorporate your vision boards, affirmations or manifesto into your place of sanctuary 

Wherever that is — your bathroom, prayer area, she-shed, bedroom, or home office — if it is a place in your home where you retreat to, to find peace, balance, or clarity, incorporate your vision board, affirmations, or manifesto there.