If you have never done this exercise, it is one that is powerful in setting the stage for achievement of your long term life goals. This one requires a calm, quiet state of mind, so carve out some time, do the things that relax you, have paper and pen on hand. Now, ask yourself this question - ___ number of years from now, how do I want to envision my life? (choose a number that fits for you; if you are 25 now, maybe look at age 35, for example)

Now, imagine an ideal day in your life at this point in the future. What is your lifestyle? Imagine the home you will be living in. What is your relationship status? Imagine yourself married with children if that’s what you want. What is your education level? Imagine yourself with that degree (or two). What is your occupation or successful entreprenurial venture? Imagine yourself at a peak level of success in your chosen line of work.

Now, write a vision statement based on what you want to see ten or fifteen years down the road. Write it in present tense as if it had already happened. “I am living in my dream house, married to my soul mate. We enjoy an abundant life and lifestyle, with the ability to travel and give our children a great education. We grow deeper in our love every day . . . ”

Be bold and inspirational with your vision statement! The bigger you make it, the farther you will go in achieving it. Aim for the stars and you’ll surely make it to the moon! This is long-term, big picture stuff - make it reflect your deepest, most cherished values.

When you have finished writing and editing your vision statement, word process it in a beautiful font, then print it and tape it on your bathroom mirror or closet door. Better yet, put it on a poster board and surround it with pictures cut from magazines that reflect the life you desire - photos of happy couples, children, beautiful homes, etc. This exercise is extremely powerful in setting your brain toward that which you want to achieve. When you envision what you want, infuse it with positive emotion, and re-visit your vision periodically, you move in that direction. You attract the right people and resources to make it happen.

If you haven’t yet read The Secret, go and buy it today and read it. It is the most powerful book I’ve read about how to envision and manifest everything you want in life. These exercises have worked for me and for countless others, and you can make them work for you.

Author's Bio: 

Nina Atwood, M.Ed., LPC, is a licensed therapist with twenty years in private practice. Nina launched the world’s first educational resource on the internet for singles, Singlescoach®, in 1996, simultaneous with the publication of her first book, Be Your Own Dating Service. Since then, she’s established herself as one of the foremost authorities on the intricacies of dating and love relationships. She’s been featured in innumerable national magazines and newspapers, on radio hundreds of times, and on national and regional television. Nina’s newest book, Temptations of the Single Girl: The Ten Dating Traps You Must Avoid (Wheatmark, 2008), was just released to rave reviews. Nina lives in Dallas, Texas, with her Soul Partner and husband, Mark.