What do you get when two firstborns marry and produce an army of little (and now big) humans? The answer sat huddled, cuddled, and smooshed in piles of tangled limbs on our living room couch this past winter break. All ten Hausers had not been together in our home for two years. A lot can happen in that period, and a lot has happened: so much growing, so much learning, so much changing. But the coolest part of that moment was that, completely unsolicited, our firstborn children decided to put on a family goal-setting workshop. Having identified and experienced the power of goal-setting and planning in their own lives, we sat in the space as they encouraged us to put intentional thought into what we truly wanted for ourselves. In the end, our collective vision boards, though they took many forms, forced us to face what we wanted to accomplish and allow the rest of us to see it, too.
For those unfamiliar, vision boards are physical representations of goals. Collages of sorts. They may include words, pictures, printouts, articles, or anything that serves as a visual reminder of a person’s goals and dreams. Vision boards often include an individual’s word (or words) of the year. But the importance of going through the exercise of developing and assembling a board (or Google slide or poster or screen saver) cannot be underestimated. Vision boards are not just for the super-achieving, hyper-motivated goal-setters amongst us. They are a tool for anyone who wishes to self-reflect and gain awareness of what is important to them. After all, a goal without a plan is just a wish. With the constant reminder of our priorities, vision boards promote positive thinking and optimism. Instead of worry and anxiety about the future, a visual representation of our goals and aspirations cannot help but shift our mindsets. We transform from “What if I fail?” to “What if everything works out after all?”
Finally, vision boards provide a system of accountability. They hold a place of prominence in our physical environment, somewhere unavoidable. As we physically face and affirm our goals each day, we are reminded of our progress, we are encouraged to forge ahead, and we keep our dreams in the forefront of our minds. Vision boards can be shared, too. Showing your vision board to friends and family helps keep you on track. Find accountability partners who understand your goals and support your journey.
Vision boards are a therapeutic artistic outlet. But don’t let fear (whether fear of your lack of creativity or fear of an uncertain future) stop you from doing the work. Vision boards are a safe place to dream big and create your desired future. No limitations or saboteurs are clouding your brain with destructive thoughts like, “I will never…” or “I don’t deserve…” Your vision board is more than an art project; it is a tool, a roadmap, and an action plan.
Most importantly, your vision board is permission to be the very best version of your future self. It allows you to reflect, “What does my future self wish I would do today?” Ultimately, it doesn’t have to be New Year’s or even January to set goals for the year. Any time, any place, any season is a perfect time to clarify the life you want to live.
