Whether you are setting goals, making resolutions or establishing intentions for 2021, a “vision board” can help keep you accountable throughout the coming year. Typically poster-sized, this self-created visual tool contains all kinds of images and text that represent the changes you want to make.

Research has shown that visualizing your objectives really does help you achieve them. Mental practices can increase motivation, confidence, and even motor performance.

Here are the steps for this fun arts and crafts project that allows you to see what your goals will look like once you accomplish them.

1. Begin with Reflection. Take a moment to gather your thoughts about what is most important to you. Centering yourself in your aspirations will guide your creative process.

2. Gather Your Supplies. If you don’t have poster board available, use notebook paper, the back of a door or even pages in your journal. Grab scissors, adhesive and old newspapers, magazines and catalogs. Or search online for images to print and use.

3. Start Cutting. As you thumb through materials, snip out whatever grabs your eye rather than searching for anything specific. It may be a word, phrase, headline, paragraph, image or illustration. Don’t second guess - it if gets your attention, add it to your pile.

4. Pull It Together. Spread out your selections and begin placing them on your board. See if you can connect dots or find a surprising theme emerging. When your layout is done, glue or tape everything into place.

When you are finished, display your vision board within your regular line of sight. You can also snap a picture and use it as your laptop's backdrop or your phone's home screen. The key is to look at it regularly to help you stay committed and focused on reaching your goals in 2021.