Personalize Your Path: Ama Posey’s Creative Tips for Vision Boards That Inspire

Vision boards are more than art—they’re a powerful reflection of who we are and who we’re becoming. For artist and educator Ama Posey, a partner of 1 Hotel San Francisco, creating a vision board is an intentional practice, one that blends creativity and mindfulness to inspire growth, clarity, and connection.

With a focus on sustainability, Ama transforms repurposed materials into meaningful works of art, encouraging us to craft our dreams while honoring the world around us. Through every texture, image, and word chosen, vision boards offer a quiet reminder to embrace what truly matters and step boldly toward our future selves.

Inspired by Ama’s thoughtful approach, we sat down with her to explore the power of creative intention, discover unique ways to personalize the process, and learn how vision boards can guide us toward the life we imagine.

Vision boards are more than just collages—they’re visual reminders of our intentions and dreams. How did you first discover vision boards, and what inspired you to guide others in creating them?

I first discovered the power of vision boards during a pivotal moment in my life—the pandemic hit and I was just laid off from a job that I loved, but I knew this was an opportunity to throw myself into starting my business as a full-time artist. I was looking for practical ways to help myself move past fear, and I knew I had to find a way to visually organize my intentions, dreams, and the kind of life I wanted to build. Creating a vision board offered both clarity and empowerment. It wasn’t just about cutting out images—it was a process of reflecting on what truly matters and giving it a tangible form. Seeing those intentions in a daily, visual way acted as a quiet nudge, helping me stay aligned and focused on my growth.

This experience was so transformative that I felt drawn to share it with others. As both an artist and arts educator, I believe deeply in the connection between creativity and growth. Brianna Wiest writes about how if we can dream of the person we want to be, it’s because that version of us already exists—it’s waiting for us. We just need to be intentional and focused enough to step into it. Vision boards help us bridge that gap. They are a tool to manifest not only what we want to achieve but who we want to become. Guiding others in this process feels like planting seeds for a more intentional, inspired life.

Every item on a vision board tells a story. What are some unique or unexpected materials you love to use, and how do they help make the board feel more personal and connected to its creator?

I love incorporating materials that bring unexpected texture, depth, and meaning to a vision board—elements that go beyond standard magazines. Some of my favorites include pages from recycled books, scraps of fabric, handwritten notes, old photographs, or even dried flowers and leaves. These materials carry their own histories and often resonate with the creator in deeply personal ways.

For example, using a snippet of a poem or a fabric swatch from a cherished piece of clothing can add layers of story and emotion. I encourage participants to explore beyond the obvious and seek materials that feel like theirs. A vision board should feel uniquely connected to the person who makes it, reflecting not just aspirations but memories, values, and the energy of where they want to go. Every item chosen has the power to remind us of what’s possible and what we are capable of becoming.

For beginners, the blank page can feel daunting. What’s your advice for someone starting their very first vision board?

Starting is always the hardest part, but remember—there’s no right or wrong way to make a vision board. I encourage beginners to start with curiosity, not pressure. Begin by asking yourself some simple, guiding questions: What do I want more of in my life? How do I want to feel this year? What does growth look like to me?

I believe that we are capable of becoming the person we dream of–those dreams exist for a reason. If you can imagine it, you can begin building it. Vision boards are a way of taking that first step. As you place images, textures, and words on the page, you’ll start to see that you’re not just filling a blank space—you’re creating a roadmap toward your future self. Instead of worrying about perfection, focus on materials and images that resonate with you—don’t overthink it. Trust that your intuition will guide you. 

Sustainability is a core value at 1 Hotels, even in the smallest details. How can someone create a vision board with sustainability in mind, using materials they already have or that are locally sourced?

Sustainability and creativity go hand in hand. For our vision board workshop, we’ll be using recycled vintage books, magazines, and other beautiful, repurposed materials. There’s no need to buy new supplies when so many meaningful items are already around us. Old calendars, newspapers, wrapping paper, and even packaging can offer inspiring textures and imagery.
I always source locally and pick up books from thrift stores or gather natural elements such as leaves, flowers, or small branches. By using what we already have or what we can find close to home, the process of creating a vision board becomes even more intentional. Not only are we crafting our visions, but we’re also committing to live more thoughtfully and sustainably.

Workshops often amplify creativity and connection. What makes the experience of creating a vision board in a group setting so powerful, and what can guests expect from your upcoming session at 1 Hotel San Francisco?

There’s something magical about creating in a group setting. When we gather with others, we tap into a collective energy that amplifies our own creativity and reflection. Ideas flow more freely, and we’re inspired by each other’s dreams, perspectives, and approaches. It creates a sense of connection—not just with others but with ourselves.

In the upcoming session at 1 Hotel San Francisco, guests can expect a thoughtful, inspiring experience. We’ll provide beautiful, sustainable materials to help you create a vision board that feels both personal and empowering. I’ll guide participants through reflective prompts and techniques to help them connect with their goals, their values, and the person they want to become in 2025. Together, we’ll explore how creativity and intention can help us step into the lives we dream of. It’s a space for play, self-discovery, and growth.

Goals guide us, but growth defines us. How do you encourage participants to go beyond their immediate aspirations and focus on the person they want to become in 2025?

'Growth has always been at the core of my own creative and personal journey. I’ve seen firsthand how intentional, creative practices—like making vision boards—can foster meaningful transformation. In the book Your Brain on Art, research shows that engaging with art—through creating, observing, or experiencing it—activates neural pathways that reduce stress, improve cognitive function, and enhance emotional resilience. Art fosters joy, strengthens brain plasticity, and helps us live more intentionally, making it a powerful tool for healing, growth, and connection. In essence, art is not just a form of expression; it’s a powerful tool for living a richer, more intentional life.

It’s easy to set intentions at the start of the year, but as life gets busy, we can lose focus and our goals move to the back burner. A vision board serves as a powerful visual tool to remind you of your goals and intentions—keeping you focused on what truly matters. It’s not just about dreaming but about continually returning to those dreams and aligning your actions to become the person you envision. In the workshop, I guide participants to reflect on their long-term growth—not just the goals they want to achieve, but the values, habits, and qualities they want to nurture. Who do you want to be in 2025? How do you want to show up for yourself and the world? By creating vision boards, participants leave with a tangible reminder to focus on manifesting their becoming throughout the year.