by Karen Boudewyn
Perspective is more than how we see something, it’s how we interpret and prioritize what we see. It shapes our decisions, our emotions, and ultimately, our results. It’s the lens through which we view both our challenges and our ambitions.
Last week, as I was driving south into downtown Calgary across the Centre Street Bridge, I had a clear view of the skyline. The Bow Tower stood tall and commanding, seemingly the only thing that mattered in the landscape ahead. The Calgary Tower, a familiar landmark, appeared tiny in comparison, almost insignificant. But only moments later, as I progressed further down the road, the Bow Tower slipped behind me and the Calgary Tower shifted into focus. Suddenly, it wasn’t small at all. It was impressive, centre stage, and impossible to miss.
It struck me how similar this is to our own mindset and the goals we create for ourselves.
When we face a challenge whether a financial worry, uncertainty at work, a life transition, that concern tends to dominate the entire frame. It becomes the only thing we see. And while our goals remain in the distance, like the Calgary Tower, they can look small… perhaps even unattainable… simply because they aren’t front and centre right now.
But perspective shifts with movement. As we take small, intentional steps forward, what once seemed enormous can fade into the background. And those distant dreams? They grow larger, more detailed, more possible.
As we approach 2026, this is a powerful mindset to carry with us:
Be aware of what is present and stay excited about what is in the distance.
So how does this relate to finances? Financial planning is the art of balancing today with tomorrow. It’s acknowledging the demands immediately in front of us like bills, family needs, market noise, all while still nurturing the life we ultimately want to build.
Sometimes the urgent overshadows the important. A short-term concern eclipses a long-term vision. We lose sight of goals that truly matter financial independence, security for loved ones, the ability to support causes close to our hearts, or even the freedom to work because we want to, not because we have to.
Shifting perspective does not erase challenges — but it allows us to give them appropriate size. It reminds us that our future goals deserve focus and space in the picture too.
As we step into a new year, I encourage you to take a moment to notice what currently feels like the “Bow Tower” in your life. Then look ahead. What dream, what desire, what possibility is waiting to become your main focus?
A small shift in view can change the entire direction of your financial journey.
Here’s to seeing clearly, both what is right in front of us and what is brilliantly waiting just ahead.
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