Corrine Arnell

I love Pinterest. You can go on there and pin a bunch of pictures to a board and curate whatever vibes you want for yourself. As I was scrolling the other day I started to wonder; is it possible to do that in your life? Can you place a bunch of moments and details together to curate the life that you want for yourself? We all know it’s not that simple. There are things that are out of your control, that’s what makes it life. So then I asked the question, in what ways can you curate things in your life? The first thing that came to mind was the word intentionality.

Being intentional in the way that you approach certain things can lead you towards the life that you want. Whether it’s moving to a certain city where you could be more successful in your industry or simply making sure to put on a nice outfit every time you leave the house, being intentional is the way to make your camera roll look just like those Pinterest boards you have saved.

But intentionality is more than just surface-level aesthetics—it’s about crafting moments that align with what truly fulfills you. Think of your relationships, for example. Are you surrounding yourself with people who inspire and support you? It’s not about having the “perfect” friend group, but rather about nurturing connections that feel authentic and energizing. Likewise, curating your habits plays a big role. From the podcasts you listen to while commuting to the Sunday rituals that reset your week, every small choice contributes to the bigger picture.

And let’s not forget about embracing imperfection. The truth is, even the most carefully curated Pinterest boards have a little messiness to them. The key is in letting those imperfections add character rather than derail your vision. Life isn’t a static image—it’s fluid, and your ability to adapt and pivot is part of what makes your personal “board” uniquely yours.

Another aspect of curation is defining your priorities. What matters most to you? Maybe it’s advancing your career, traveling the world, or finding moments of peace amid a hectic schedule. Whatever it is, being clear about your priorities helps you focus your energy on what truly matters. For instance, if financial independence is a priority, you might curate your spending habits to align with that goal, cutting back on unnecessary expenses and investing in experiences or tools that enhance your growth.

Self-care is another critical pin on your life board. It’s not just about spa days and bubble baths (though those are great too); it’s about listening to your body and mind and giving yourself what you need. That could mean setting boundaries, saying no to things that don’t serve you, or carving out time for activities that recharge you. Think of self-care as the glue that holds your curated life together, ensuring you have the energy and clarity to keep building.

Your environment also plays a huge role in how you curate your life. Take a look around your living space. Does it reflect who you are and what you value? Creating a home that feels like a sanctuary doesn’t require a massive budget. It could be as simple as adding a candle that smells like your favorite memory, framing photos that make you smile, or decluttering a corner that always seems to stress you out. Small changes in your surroundings can have a big impact on your mood and mindset.

And then there’s the digital side of curation. We spend so much of our lives online that it’s worth considering how your digital spaces reflect your goals and values. Are you following accounts that uplift and inspire you, or ones that make you feel like you’re falling short? Curating your feed is an act of self-preservation in a world that often feels overwhelming. Unfollow what doesn’t serve you, and seek out content that aligns with your vision.

Curating your life also means leaving room for spontaneity. It’s tempting to want to plan every detail, but some of the best moments come from the unexpected. Think of those unplanned nights out with friends that turn into lifelong memories or the chance encounters that lead to exciting opportunities. Allowing a little space for the unpredictable can add a layer of magic to your life board that you couldn’t have pinned if you tried.

Lastly, don’t underestimate the power of reflection. Take time to look back at your “pins” and assess what’s working and what’s not. Are there habits or relationships that no longer serve you? Are there goals you’ve outgrown? Reflection helps you make adjustments and ensures your life board evolves as you do. After all, curating your life is an ongoing process, not a one-time project.

So, what’s on your life board right now? Is it filled with moments of joy, growth, and purpose, or do you need to swap a few pins for something that feels more “you”? Curating your life isn’t about chasing perfection. It’s about being mindful of what you’re building and finding beauty in the process. After all, every great board starts with one pin.