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Why It’s Essential to Filter Opportunities Through Your Future Goals

Writer's picture: Lisa LiberatoreLisa Liberatore



The other day, I was chatting with a real estate agent about how we each run our businesses. The conversation drifted into the nitty-gritty of habits, and she asked if I checked my bank accounts regularly. I said, "Of course! A few times a week." Her eyes widened in shock, and she admitted she didn’t—because she was scared of what she might find. Her response left me equally stunned. How could we approach something so fundamental so differently?


This interaction stuck with me. It wasn’t about who was “right” or “wrong”; it was about how much our vision—or lack thereof—shapes the way we process the world around us. When you have a clear vision of your future, it becomes easier to filter the endless stream of information and opportunities so you can make decisions aligned with your goals.


Filtering Through Your Vision

Here’s an example: Someone asks you to join them for dinner out. Fun, right? But let’s say your vision includes saving a specific amount of money and focusing on eating healthier. While it’s tempting to say yes, your response might instead look like:"Thanks for the invite! I’m trying to stick to my budget and health goals, but I’d love to have you over sometime soon."

This doesn’t mean you don’t value friendships—it simply means you place a higher value on what you’re trying to achieve in life.


Let me be honest: It’s not always easy. As a travel hockey mom, there are plenty of times we eat out more than I’d like. But here’s the difference: those times are intentional and fit within a budget I’ve carefully planned. Because of this, I don’t feel guilt when I decline an invitation to eat out. I know I’ve made space for those moments when they matter most.


Vision Makes Sacrifice Easier

Sticking to your vision can feel lonely at times. Saying yes to spontaneous fun is incredibly tempting, but I know I’d feel frustrated coming home if it didn’t align with my goals or budget. As Dave Ramsey puts it:"If you will live like no one else, later you can live like no one else."


When you focus on your long-term vision, you’re not just saying no to something—you’re saying yes to the bigger picture. You’re creating a future where your goals aren’t just dreams but realities.


Living with Intention

I won’t sugarcoat it: maintaining a vision requires discipline, but it also creates clarity. When you know what you’re working toward, every decision becomes a step in that direction. In her book Be Seen, Jen Gottlieb writes:"Clarity creates confidence, and confidence creates action."


This clarity allows you to filter the noise, prioritize what truly matters, and avoid getting derailed by fear—whether it’s fear of missing out, disappointing others, or even checking your bank account.


The Takeaway

Creating a vision for your future isn’t just about having goals; it’s about using those goals to guide your daily decisions. It’s a practice of intentionality that empowers you to say no to what doesn’t align and yes to the life you’re working to build.


So take the time to create your vision. Write it down. Get specific. Then, the next time you’re faced with a decision—big or small—filter it through that vision. You might be surprised at how empowering it feels to stay the course.

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