Episode Summary:
In this episode, I’m sharing something close to my heart—how I create my vision each year to shape the life I want. Whether you’re a dreamer with your head in the clouds, a planner with lists for everything, or someone who waits until the last minute (guilty!), this episode is for you. I’m diving into three tools that have completely transformed my life.
Takeaways from this Episode:
- The steps I take to create my vision each year.
- Why writing down your dreams is a game-changer.
- How to balance action with trust in the universe.
If you’re ready to embrace your dreams and start shaping your vision for 2025, this episode is the perfect way to close out the year. Thank you for being part of this journey with me. See you in 2025—each year is getting better, and I know it can for you too!
Key Highlights
The Miracle Box
This practice, which I learned from a dear friend, is all about holding space for your boldest, biggest dreams. I’ll walk you through how to create your own Miracle Box, how I use it to dream big, and the special ritual I perform every year to celebrate the miracles that have come true. The 300 List
Inspired by Steve Harvey, this exercise challenges you to write down 300 things you want to achieve or experience in your life. I’ll be honest—getting to 300 isn’t easy, but that’s where the magic happens. I’ll share how this list has kept me focused, helped me dream unapologetically, and brought so much abundance into my life.
The Universe To-Do List
This is my way of separating what I can control from what I trust the universe to handle. It’s simple yet powerful, and I’ll share how this practice helps me stay grounded, focused, and open to new possibilities.
Links to connect with me...
Book a Consult HERE! (https://caffeinecreative.io/consult/)
Email me HERE! theperfectblendcaffeinecreative.io
Find me on Substack!
Detailed Show Notes
(automatically transcribed using AI Technology)
Intro
Hello my friends! This episode goes out to my procrastinators who wait until the last minute, the dreamers with their heads in the clouds, and my long-time planners—the list-makers and note-takers.
Today, we’re talking about creating vision, and I’m going to share how I create my own vision each and every year.
I’d like to dedicate this episode to all of the well-intentioned naysayers in my life. I love you. Thank you for believing in me, caring enough to speak up, and loving me even when you thought I had lost my marbles. I love you too, and I hope one day you’ll find a bit of the sparkle I see in my life each and every day.
Welcome to The Solo Grind!
Hello, my friends, and welcome back to The Solo Grind. This is actually the final episode of Season One. Don’t worry, I’m coming back for Season Two, but this will be the last episode for 2024. I’ve gotta be honest—I was struggling a little bit with this decision. I have so many ideas and so much that I want to share. When I started this podcast, I didn’t know that I’d have this much to say. Somewhere along the line, the floodgates opened up, and I realized I have a lot of ideas. I really wanted to keep pushing through, delivering weekly, and showing up until the very last second of 2024.
But I also decided that I want to do it right, do it well, and do it with excellence. With the holidays coming up, a quick trip down to see my mom and pops, and some other things going on, I just don’t know that I can promise excellence right now. And that is something that is very important to me, especially when it comes to connecting with you each and every week.
Here’s the lineup: Today is December 17th. Next week, it will be Christmas Eve, and then New Year’s Eve, so I’m not going to be showing up for the next two weeks. But I will be back on January 7th, when we’ll launch Season Two of The Solo Grind. I promise you, I have some really amazing and fun things planned for the new year.
With that being said, I wanted to finish off this year by talking about creating your vision. Now, creating your vision is something that I love to do. And I mean love, love, love. This is something I’ve been very intentional about for probably 20 years—and I’m not exaggerating. The reason I’m so focused and intentional on this is because I know deep down in my heart and soul that we have the power to create the life we want. Yes, outside forces are going to pop in. Yes, people are going to try to inflict their crazy agendas into our lives. But how we show up in our lives is what truly matters the most.
Showing up with thought, intention, and focus is how we craft our dream life. Today, I thought I’d share how I do that. I actually have a couple of tools that I’ve learned and developed over the years—or copied and tweaked to create my own version. I’m going to share three things that I do to create my vision for the new year.
And to my planners out there, you’re probably thinking, “Teresa, where have you been? We’re two weeks from the new year. Shouldn’t you already have a vision?” And yes, I kind of do, but I definitely fall into the procrastinator section, and I typically do things last minute. Honestly, the fact that I prerecorded episodes for this season so that they could be out there and done with excellence is a miracle to me because I am a last-minute planner.
So with that being said, let’s dive into this week’s topic. But before I do, I want to do something that my good friend Emily reminded me of: to tell you a little bit about me. I know not everyone tuning in has been with me from the beginning. You might not know who I am or what I do.
For those of you who have joined me before—welcome back! Grab a cup of coffee, and come back in just a few seconds...
For those joining me for the first time...
Let me introduce myself . My name is Teresa Schlup, and I am the host of The Solo Grind. I am also a brand strategist, web designer, and digital marketer, and I’ve coined myself the OG—Original Caffeine Creative. I’m all about creating a brand, a life, a business, and a vision that is 100% you. And I do that fueled by caffeine most of the time.
If you’re ever interested in finding out more about me or think you’d like to work with me, all of my contact information is in the show notes. You can email me, schedule a consult, or follow me on social media. I’ll admit, I’m not the best at checking my messages on social media, but I will get to them eventually. I’d love to connect with you. If you’re interested in a website or want to know more about that, I’d love to help you there as well.
Now that you know who I am, what I do, and what I bring to the world to make my corner of it a little better, let’s dive into today’s topic about creating vision. As I said earlier, I’m going to be sharing three ways I create my vision each and every year, and I stay pretty focused on these throughout the year.
Let’s dive into today's topic about creating vision.
And as I said in the beginning, I am going to be sharing with you three ways that I create my vision each and every year. And I stay pretty focused on these throughout the year.
But before I share that, I wanted to start off with a little bit of a story. Way back when I was growing up in the southeast coast of Texas, along the Gulf of Mexico, I had this crazy belief in the world that anything, absolutely anything, was possible. No matter what I dreamed up, I could make it happen. As long as I was willing to put in the work to do so, it didn't matter what it was—I believed it was possible.
I actually remember saying to people back then, when I still had this open mind, that anything was possible. Of course, I can achieve what I want, because I said I would! I never doubted that I could achieve what I dreamed, and that was just where I was.
But being that way as a young child, you can imagine the well-intentioned naysayers always had something to say to counteract this. I was accused of having my head in the clouds—and honestly, I really did. I didn’t see the world through limitations or things that were unavailable.
I saw the world as possibilities, as opportunities, as things to do, to learn, to try, and to say.
And I don’t have to tell you—a lot of people are not that way. They see the world through fearful eyes. They see the world with limitations. They see the world as a struggle or as something that happens to us and not a life that we get to choose how we live.
So these well-intentioned naysayers came through and were quick to tell me, “No, you can’t do what you want. It’s good to think, it’s a nice thought, but what about this limitation and that limitation? What about if this happens or that happens?” They were always quick to tell me reasons why my dreams could not come true.
And as much as I hate to admit it, there was a point in time where I started to believe them. I started to see the world with blinders on and only see obstacles and limitations before me, and it was not a fun place to be. Instead of creating the life that I wanted, I was responding to life happening to me, feeling that I had no choice.
Thankfully, my sunny optimism won out in the end, and I truly am living my dream life. Every day, I am shaping that dream to be the next level of what I am looking for in this life. So, with that being said, I wanted to share with you how this transformation happened, because I can assure you, it did not happen overnight.
It was a lot of work and a lot of intention and a lot of focus that helped me begin creating this dream life. And over the years, I’ve done a lot of things—from vision boards to journaling The Artist’s Way (if you haven’t checked out that book, it’s a fabulous one), and so many things I can’t even remember, all to help me shape the vision and the dream of living the life I want to live.
And today, I’m going to share with you my three top ways of crafting, creating, drafting, and envisioning my dream life.
1. The Miracle Box
This concept, introduced to me by my dear friend Susie, has become an integral part of my life. It’s a simple yet profound way to hold space for your dreams, desires, and goals.
What Is a Miracle Box?
A Miracle Box is exactly what it sounds like—a container for miracles. It can be anything: a cardboard box, a gift box, or even a beautifully carved wooden box. The key is that it resonates with you and feels special. It’s where you’ll store your biggest, boldest, and sometimes scariest dreams.
When selecting your box, choose something you don’t mind seeing daily. After all, it’s going to be with you for an entire year. My first Miracle Box was lime green, covered in a snowflake pattern, and tied with a purple ribbon—not exactly Pinterest-worthy, but it made me happy. That’s the point: your Miracle Box should bring you joy.
How to Create Your Miracle Box
- Choose Your Box
Pick a container that feels right for you. It doesn’t have to be fancy. The only requirement is that it makes you smile. - Gather Your Supplies
You’ll need slips of paper to write on. These can be Post-it notes, pretty stationery, or even scraps of napkin. Again, the choice is yours. - Write Your Miracles
Begin writing down your dreams, goals, and wishes on individual slips of paper. Think big, dream bold, and don’t hold back. For each miracle, write it as if it’s already come true. For example, “I am living my life 100% for me,” or “I have traveled abroad for free.” - Add a Personal Touch
If you’re like me, you might enjoy rolling up the slips into little scrolls. There’s something special about this tiny ritual—it adds intention and care to the process. - Fill Your Box
Once you’ve written down all the miracles you can think of, place them in your box. Then, find a spot for it. Mine has lived in my office, my bedroom, and even my kitchen. Wherever it lands, let it serve as a gentle reminder of the miracles waiting to unfold.
The Ritual of Opening Your Miracle Box
Toward the end of the year, usually during Thanksgiving weekend, I open my Miracle Box. This ritual is a deeply personal moment filled with gratitude and reflection. With my Christmas tree glowing in the background and a cup of peppermint mocha in hand, I sit down and read through each slip of paper.
Some miracles make me smile, others bring tears of joy, and a few remind me of how far I’ve come. Over the years, I’ve celebrated mended relationships, career milestones, and even life-changing moments like being cured of cancer.
Not every miracle comes true—and that’s okay. Sometimes, I realize that certain dreams weren’t as important to me as I thought. Other times, the timing simply hasn’t aligned yet. I trust that life is working in my favor and that those dreams will come to fruition when the moment is right.
Why It Works
The Miracle Box is more than a container—it’s a mindset. It encourages gratitude, intentionality, and belief in the possibility of your dreams. Seeing the box every day serves as a quiet reminder of the life you’re creating. And when you open it, you’ll find yourself awash in awe at how much has unfolded.
Make It Your Own
If you’re inspired to create your own Miracle Box, I encourage you to do so. It’s a fun, creative process that can transform how you approach your dreams. My old mastermind group made them together for a few years, and it became a cherished tradition. Whether you do this alone or with loved ones, it’s a meaningful way to set intentions for the year ahead.
So, grab a box, start dreaming, and let the magic begin. You might just be amazed at what the universe has in store for you.
2. The 300 List: Defining Your Dreams with Intention
Let me tell you about an exercise that changed my life—the 300 List. This concept came to me through a dear friend, Darla, who shared it during one of our mastermind group sessions. She introduced us to a video by Steve Harvey that outlined a simple yet powerful challenge: writing a list of 300 things you want to achieve, experience, or manifest in your life.
At first, the idea seemed straightforward, but as I watched the video, I realized its profound potential. Steve Harvey explained that there are two fundamental steps we can take to completely transform our lives. These steps don’t require money, elaborate plans, or even leaving your home—they only require intention and action.
The Two Steps That Change Everything
Step 1: Ask for What You Want
Steve emphasizes that we often don’t have what we want simply because we haven’t asked for it. This world is abundant, brimming with opportunities, and full of everything we could ever desire—but we must be willing to ask.
Step 2: Write It Down
Once you’ve identified what you want, write it down. Putting your desires into words and making them plain is a declaration to the universe. It’s a way of saying, "This is what I’m working toward. This is what I believe is possible." Whether it’s achieving a career milestone, creating a dream home, or living a fulfilling daily routine, acknowledging these dreams through writing sets the stage for them to unfold.
The Challenge: Creating Your 300 List
The 300 List is deceptively simple: write down 300 things you want in your life. When I first attempted this exercise, I thought it would be easy. I breezed through the first 25 items, maybe even the first 50. Then I hit a wall.
Why? Because, like many people, I felt a twinge of guilt. Was I being greedy for wanting so much? Did I deserve everything I was writing down? Or maybe I simply didn’t know what I wanted beyond the obvious. That hesitation was an eye-opener. It showed me how little time I had spent truly reflecting on my desires.
But here’s the magic: if you push past that barrier and allow yourself to dream freely, the process becomes transformative. As I wrote, I uncovered dreams I hadn’t even consciously recognized.
The Value of the 300 List
For me, the 300 List is more than just a collection of wishes; it’s a roadmap for my life. Every time I revisit it, I’m reminded of what I’m working toward. The act of writing it down adds intention, while reviewing it regularly helps me stay focused, even when life feels overwhelming.
Steve Harvey recommends reading your list every morning and evening. While I’m not always consistent, I’ve found that revisiting the list during challenging times works wonders. It reorients my mindset, helping me shift from reacting to life’s chaos to intentionally creating the life I want.
What’s fascinating is how this exercise brings clarity and opens doors. Some items on my list come to fruition in ways I never expected. Others remain there, waiting for the right timing, and that’s okay. The process is less about checking items off and more about staying aligned with your vision.
How to Create Your Own 300 List
- Set Aside Quiet Time
Find a moment where you won’t be interrupted. Grab a notebook, your favorite pen, or even your laptop—whatever feels right. - Start Writing
Begin with the big dreams: the career achievements, the personal milestones, the adventures you’ve always wanted. Then dig deeper. What kind of relationships do you want? What hobbies or skills do you want to explore? - Push Through the Barriers
When you feel stuck, remember that it’s normal. Keep going. Allow yourself to ask for what you truly want without judgment. - Revisit Your List
Once you’ve completed it (or as much of it as you can), make it a habit to revisit it. Reading your list regularly reinforces your goals and helps you stay connected to your vision.
The Magic of the 300 List
Over the past five years, this exercise has become a cornerstone of my life. I’ve written multiple lists, and while I’ve yet to hit 300 in a single sitting, the cumulative total is well beyond that. The 300 List has taught me to dream boldly, ask unapologetically, and believe in the magic of possibility.
Whenever I need inspiration or feel like life is happening to me rather than through me, I return to my list. And every time, I’m reminded of the abundance this world has to offer.
If this resonates with you, I encourage you to try it for yourself. It might feel challenging at first, but trust me, the results are worth it. Here's the video I am referring to. Watch it, share it with someone you love, and most importantly, start your list.
Your Life, Intentionally Crafted
The 300 List isn’t just a wish list—it’s a declaration of your dreams and a commitment to yourself. So, grab a notebook, start writing, and let the magic begin. You never know what might unfold when you simply ask.
3. The Universe To-Do List: Partnering with Possibility
Let’s dive into the Universe To-Do List, a practice that’s admittedly a little “woo-woo” but has been incredibly grounding and empowering in my life. Some may scoff at the concept—it’s not everyone’s cup of tea—but I’ve come to love its simplicity and the way it helps me focus on what truly matters.
How the Universe To-Do List Works
Here’s the idea: I have a whiteboard in my office divided into two sections. On one side, I write “I Will...” and on the other, “The Universe Will...” It’s my way of distinguishing between what I can control and what I need to let go of, trusting the universe (or whatever you believe in) to handle the rest.
On the “I Will...” side, I list the things that are within my control—actions, attitudes, and commitments that align with the life I want to live. These might include:
- Taking care of my physical and mental health, without obsessing or ignoring what needs attention.
- Embracing joy, even on tough days.
- Loving my clients, audience, family, and friends well.
- Showing up with excellence in everything I do.
This list keeps me grounded, reminding me that I have the power to show up for myself and others in meaningful ways.
On the “The Universe Will...” side, I let go of the things I can’t control. Here, I write the dreams, opportunities, and outcomes I hope to attract. Some examples:
- A clear and easy path forward in areas of my life where I feel stuck.
- Doors opening to fabulous new opportunities for growth and learning.
- Abundance—not just financial, but also in love, friendships, time with family, and joy.
When I look at this list, it feels like a collaboration. I do my part, and the universe does its part.
The Ritual and the Results
Each morning, I glance at the whiteboard to refocus my energy. Some days, it’s just a quick reminder; other days, it feels like a lifeline. What’s amazing is how often I see those “universe” items start to manifest. Sometimes, the results are subtle, like finding just the right person to help with a project. Other times, they’re monumental, like an unexpected opportunity landing in my lap.
Why It Works
This practice helps me shift from overwhelm to intentionality. Instead of getting bogged down by things I can’t control, I focus on the actions and mindset that keep me moving forward. It’s also a powerful way to embrace gratitude—when those “universe” items start to come to fruition, it’s a reminder of how much possibility exists around us.
Creating Your Own Universe To-Do List
You don’t need a fancy setup to try this. A notebook, a sticky note, or even the notes app on your phone will do. Here’s how to get started:
- Divide Your Space
Create two sections labeled “I Will...” and “The Universe Will...” - List Your Commitments
Under “I Will...,” write down the actions, habits, or attitudes you’re committing to. These should be things you can control, like prioritizing your health, showing kindness, or pursuing excellence in your work. - Write Your Dreams
Under “The Universe Will...,” list the things you hope to attract or achieve but can’t fully control. Be specific yet open-ended—this is where you invite possibility. - Review and Reflect
Look at your list regularly. Adjust it as needed to reflect your evolving goals and dreams.
That's a wrap on Season 1!
All right, my friend, that is it for Season One of The Solo Grind. I feel like I should have, like, some party poppers or champagne bubbling to celebrate! Since I didn't think ahead I'll just go with a great big heartfelt gratitude to each and every one of you who have listened to me this season and tuned in. To those of you reaching out and connecting with me—thank you so much. Your words mean more to me than anything else that I can imagine.
And I’m going to just take this opportunity to wish you an amazing holiday season, whatever holidays you are celebrating right now, and wish you a very, very happy start to the 2025 New Year. Can you believe it? 2025. We are here. I cannot wait to join you in 2025 and to create the most amazing year of our lives ahead. Because after all, each year is just getting better and better for me, and I know it can for you as well.
