In the spirit of the past holiday season of December, echoing the timeless question from a beloved Christmas carol—"Do you see what I see?"—let's explore how our viewpoints shape not just what we observe, but what we achieve. This simple query, posed just a month ago in festive tunes, holds profound lessons for personal growth, professional success, and financial wisdom. Drawing from over two decades of experience, I'll share a story that transformed how I view challenges and opportunities. It's a reminder that true vision isn't about what's on the surface; it's about peering deeper to uncover hidden potential.
The Hidden Layers: A Building's Story of Transformation
When onboarding a new team member at Financialoscopy®, I love pulling out an old deck of photos—not digital snapshots, but tangible prints that capture the raw history of our team and this very building. These images transport us back to the early days after we purchased the property. I recall inviting the contractors back once the renovations were complete, expecting them to marvel at the fresh paint, plush carpeting, sleek desks, and state-of-the-art computers—all seamlessly put together.
To my surprise, one contractor glanced around and said, "All I see is two-by-fours." I was puzzled—there were no visible two-by-fours anywhere! But he explained, "I'm a building contractor. I don't see all the pretty stuff. I see two-by-fours." The electrician chimed in similarly: "I see where the wires are on the other side of the wall." And the plumber? "We see the plumbing, even though you can't see it through the wall."
These professionals weren't ignoring the beauty; their expertise allowed them to envision the foundational elements that made it all possible. Take one photo from my memory deck: it's my office, but with no floor in sight—the entire level had to be raised 18 inches post-purchase.
Another shows a view through what was once a back wall, peering into Nate Becker's future office, the entrance area, and out to what would become our parking lot.
Back then, it was chaos—a skeleton of potential. But do you see what I see? Not just the mess, but the masterpiece waiting to emerge.
Seeing Beyond the Surface in Life and Finance
As the years have passed and my experience has deepened, I've come to realize this principle extends far beyond bricks and mortar. In a person's life, true vision means spotting what others might miss: the impending hardships that could derail dreams, and the boundless possibilities that lie just beneath the surface.
Imagine your life as that unfinished building. The "pretty stuff"—the promotions, the vacations, the financial highs—grabs attention, but the real strength comes from the unseen framework. Hardships, like hidden wiring or plumbing, are inevitable: market downturns, unexpected health issues, or career setbacks. They lurk behind the walls of daily routine, but with the right perspective, you can anticipate and reinforce against them.
Yet, here's the motivational spark: those same eyes that spot challenges can also reveal opportunities. Just as our contractors saw the sturdy two-by-fours supporting grandeur, you can envision the possibilities in your own journey. A financial setback? It's a chance to rebuild stronger foundations through smarter budgeting or diversified investments. A personal hurdle? It's an invitation to grow resilience and unlock new paths.
In my work at Financialoscopy®, we apply this lens daily. We don't just see your current finances; we peer into the "two-by-fours" of your future—potential risks like inadequate retirement planning or untapped growth in estate strategies. By shifting perspective, we transform vulnerabilities into victories.
Embrace Your Inner Visionary: Steps to See and Seize More
Ready to ask yourself, "Do you see what I see?" and turn insight into action? Here's how to cultivate that motivational edge:
- Reflect on Your Foundations: Take stock of your life's "structure." What hidden challenges might be looming? Journal about them, then brainstorm proactive solutions—like building an emergency fund or seeking mentorship.
- Seek Diverse Perspectives: Just as I consulted contractors, surround yourself with experts. A financial advisor, coach, or trusted friend can reveal blind spots and highlight possibilities you never imagined.
- Visualize the Transformation: Pull out your own "deck of photos"—metaphorical or literal. Review past struggles and triumphs to see how they've shaped your progress. Use this to fuel optimism for what's ahead.
- Act with Intention: Don't wait for the "pretty stuff" to appear. Start small: Raise your "floor" by learning a new skill, investing wisely, or nurturing relationships. Every step builds toward that grand reveal.
In the end, perspective isn't passive—it's a superpower that propels you forward. The contractors saw infrastructure; I see potential in every unfinished story, including yours. As we wrap up this holiday season, challenge yourself to look deeper. The hardships may be there, but so are the possibilities. What hidden masterpiece will you uncover today? Your future is waiting—see it, believe it, and build it.
