By: Edward J. Leach, CFP®, MBA, CEPA®
“The best way to predict the future is to create it.”
— Peter Drucker
That quote captures precisely how we should approach financial planning and life. When we take a proactive, hopeful approach, we give ourselves the ability to shape our future rather than just brace for it.
But that’s not always easy.
Lately, many conversations we have had with clients have centered around fear. And it’s understandable. The news cycle is full of troubling headlines: inflation pressures, geopolitical tension, talk of recession, and market swings. It can feel overwhelming. In response, many investors retreat into caution, focusing only on what could go wrong. And while being aware of risk is important, letting fear drive decisions rarely leads to long-term success.
That’s where planning comes in.
A good financial plan is not built on guesswork or gut reactions. It’s built on a vision of the future you want to create. It’s rooted in discipline, flexibility, and resilience. It prepares you for what can go wrong—but also positions you to participate in what can go right.
That optimistic, forward-looking mindset reminds me of something Henry Ford once said:
“If I had listened to customers, I would have gone out looking for faster horses.”
Ford saw beyond what people thought they needed and instead focused on what was possible. He saw the opportunity to build something better—not just improve what already existed. That same kind of thinking applies to how we view the future. There’s so much innovation happening around us in healthcare, technology, energy, and beyond. These aren’t just buzzwords—they’re real opportunities shaping what’s ahead.
Yes, markets will fluctuate, and yes, there are risks. But we also live in an age of extraordinary innovation—medical advances, clean energy, AI, space exploration, and global connectivity. The future is being built every day, and smart, optimistic investors are finding ways to be part of it.
At Highland, we help clients cut through the noise and look forward with clarity and optimism. We believe in thoughtful, long-term planning—not fear-based investing. It’s not about chasing trends or reacting to headlines. It’s about designing a path toward your desired future while staying grounded in a plan that can weather whatever comes.
If you ever have questions, concerns, or fears—or want to revisit your financial plan—know we’re always here to help.
The foregoing content reflects the opinions of Highland Financial Advisors, LLC, and is subject to change at any time without notice. Content provided herein is for informational purposes only and should not be used or construed as investment advice or a recommendation regarding the purchase or sale of any security. There is no guarantee that the statements, opinions, or forecasts provided herein will prove to be correct.
Past performance may not be indicative of future results. Indices are not available for direct investment. Any investor who attempts to mimic the performance of an index would incur fees and expenses, which would reduce returns.
Securities investing involves risk, including the potential for loss of principal. There is no assurance that any investment plan or strategy will be successful or that markets will act as they have in the past.
Ed Leach, CFP®, MBA, is a Partner and Wealth Advisor at HIGHLAND Financial Advisors, LLC in Wayne, NJ, and works directly with clients advising them on their financial planning and investments. Ed’s work focuses on the unique needs of business owners, helping them extract value from their businesses while creating efficiencies in their business and personal financial plans. He is also a member of NAPFA, which is dedicated to serving fee-only advisors.