From Vision to Reality: The Art of Quiet Progress

You know, it’s funny how we look back on a year and realize that—spoiler alert—life didn’t throw us any massive plot twists. For me, the past year has been one of calm waters. No wild drama, no soap-opera-worthy surprises. Work? Steady. Relationships? Solid. Home? Cozy. Honestly, I wanted a year like this—one marked by growth, learning, and a sense of moving forward. And guess what? My vision board and I seem to have been on the same page.

Ah, the vision board—my trusty tool for charting out a version of the future me that I can get excited about. It’s not magic (no fairy dust or crystal balls involved), but it is a great way to get intentional about life. Of course, slapping some pretty pictures onto a board and then forgetting about it won’t do much. The real power lies in revisiting that vision—often. Quiet moments of reflection, the kind where you ask yourself, “Am I edging closer to this?”, have a way of sharpening your focus and making you more aware of opportunities as they appear.

Here’s the trick: it’s not about striving like a maniac for perfection or chasing after wealth and status. For me, the goal is simple—to become the person I want to be. That means starting each day with intention, asking myself what I can do to move the needle, and wrapping up each evening with a moment of reflection. Did I show up today in a way that aligns with my vision? Did I learn something? Did I edge a little closer to that me I’m aiming for?

It’s a daily practice—small, steady habits that stack up over time. Progress doesn’t always look exciting, but it feels good. And in a year where life was more quiet than chaotic, that progress feels like a win.

So here’s to vision boards, quiet mornings, reflective evenings, and becoming our best selves—one day, one habit, one intention at a time.

© Jurgens Pieterse. All rights reserved. 2024

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