Vision Boards vs. Resolution Lists

Right Brain, Left Brain — and Finding Balance at the New Year

The New Year often acts as a psychological assessment date. Much like birthdays or other meaningful milestones, it invites reflection: What have I done so far? Where am I going next?

From a strictly mindfulness or Zen perspective, this practice might seem counterintuitive. After all, it pulls us away from the present moment and into memories of the past or projections of the future. And yet, despite not being a “pure” mindfulness exercise, this kind of reflection is deeply useful—and even healthy—when approached with balance.

A life well lived does not reject the past or ignore the future. Instead, it integrates them into a coherent personal narrative. Being able to move flexibly between presence, reflection, and intention allows us to live with greater meaning, resilience, and self-understanding.

At the start of a new year, many of us feel a genuine conviction that this moment could mark a turning point—or at least a strengthening of what is already working. This is where tools like vision boards and resolution lists come into play.

But which one is better?

Two Tools, Two Cognitive Styles

Both vision boards and resolution lists aim to support intentional change. However, they speak to different ways the brain processes information.

🧠 Resolution Lists: The Left Brain Approach

Resolution lists tend to be:

• Logical

• Linear

• Language-based

• Structured and measurable

They appeal to the analytical side of the mind. Writing clear goals—exercise three times a week, save a specific amount, learn a new skill—helps clarify intentions and creates a sense of order and control.

Strengths

• Easy to track and measure

• Encourages accountability

• Helpful for people who thrive on structure

Limitations

• Can feel rigid or pressuring

• Often disconnected from emotional motivation

• May trigger self-criticism if goals aren’t met

🎨 Vision Boards: The Right Brain Approach

Vision boards rely on:

• Images

• Symbols

• Metaphors

• Emotional resonance

Rather than focusing on what you will do, they capture how you want to feel and who you want to become. They activate imagination, intuition, and emotional memory.

Strengths

• Highly motivating on an emotional level

• Encourages creativity and possibility

• Helps clarify values and identity

Limitations

• Can remain vague without concrete steps

• Harder to evaluate progress

• May feel unrealistic to very analytical minds

Integration Over Opposition

Instead of asking Which one is better?, a healthier and more effective question might be:

Which one fits my personal style—or how can I integrate both?

Life satisfaction does not come from choosing one “correct” method, but from integrating apparently contradictory parts:

• Logic and emotion

• Structure and imagination

• Planning and presence

This integrative capacity is a core psychological skill linked to resilience, adaptability, and long-term wellbeing.

A Balanced Practice for the New Year

Here are a few ways to combine both approaches into a more mindful and effective exercise:

• Start with a vision board to connect emotionally with your intentions

  • Ask: How do I want my life to feel this year?

• Translate the images into a short resolution list

  • Ask: What small, realistic actions support this vision?

• Revisit both periodically, not to judge yourself, but to realign

• Allow flexibility—goals can evolve as you do

This approach honors both hemispheres of the brain and respects the complexity of human motivation.

Presence, Reflection, and Growth

Living fully does not mean staying locked in the present moment at all costs. It means knowing when to be present, when to reflect, and when to imagine what is possible.

The New Year offers a symbolic pause—a moment to step back and consciously choose how we want to move forward. Whether you use a vision board, a resolution list, or a thoughtful blend of both, the true value lies in making the process intentional, compassionate, and aligned with who you are.

Balance, integration, and self-understanding—not perfection—are what make change sustainable.

Here’s to entering the new year with clarity, creativity, and kindness toward ourselves. Happy 2026 for all!