The Illusion of the Dream Home: Why Bigger Isn’t Always Better

I once bought a massive home in an incredible neighborhood, believing it would be the pinnacle of success.

I thought it would bring satisfaction, joy, and peace.

But it didn’t.

In fact, it was the exact opposite.

The house wasn’t the problem. The problem was the expectation I placed on it—that somehow, once I had it, my life would feel complete.

Instead of being life-giving, it became a burden.

And now, when I coach others, I see the same thing play out over and over again.

Some Lessons Can’t Be Taught—They Have to Be Lived

As someone who helps people develop a Lifeonaire Vision, I want to guide people the right way.

I’ve had so many conversations where I share my story—how chasing “more” left me feeling empty.

But most people don’t want to hear it.

They’re convinced that their story will be different. That once they have the dream home, the big business, and the next financial milestone, then life will finally feel the way they want it to.

And I get it. I really do.

Because I had to live it myself before I was willing to admit the truth.

Sometimes, the only way people will understand the emptiness of the pursuit is to experience it firsthand.

But if you’re reading this, and something in you is questioning whether you’re chasing the right things—maybe you don’t have to learn this lesson the hard way.

Maybe it’s time to start asking: What is God’s vision for my life?

Six Truths About Vision That Change Everything

I’ve learned that true fulfillment doesn’t come from chasing the world’s definition of success.

It comes from having a vision that is shaped by God.

If you’re wondering whether you’re on the right path, here are six things I’ve learned about vision that might change the way you see everything:

1- God Will Help You Shape Your Vision

You don’t have to figure it all out on your own.

Jeremiah 29:11 says, “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”

If God already knows the plans He has for you, why wouldn’t you start by seeking Him?

So many people spend their lives chasing their own plans, hoping God will bless them.

But the real power comes in aligning with His plan from the beginning.

2- God is the Giver of Vision

Any vision that will truly bring fulfillment must be built on His will.

We can either spend our lives resisting what God is doing or we can choose to come alongside Him and be part of it.

One leads to exhaustion.

The other leads to peace.

3- Shaping Your Life and Business Vision Requires Faith, Patience, and Perseverance

Most people give up too soon.

They expect clarity to come all at once.

But God reveals vision in His timing—not ours.

You have to trust that He will bring clarity as you take steps forward.

Faith means moving, even when you don’t have the full picture.

4- A Vision From God Will Always Face Resistance

If your vision is truly from God, expect opposition.

Sometimes, it will come from the world.

Sometimes, it will come from other believers.

Sometimes, it will even come from yourself—the fear, doubt, and insecurities that creep in.

But if God has given you a vision, He will sustain you through the resistance.

You just have to be steadfast and hold on.

5- God Will Provide Everything You Need

If God gives the vision, He will bring the resources.

The right people

The finances

The skills

The opportunities

Our job isn’t to have everything figured out.

Our job is to trust Him and take the next step.

6- Pursuing Your Vision Requires Risk

Most people won’t pursue their true vision because they’re waiting for certainty.

They want guarantees before they step out.

But here’s a question worth asking:

What is the cost of certainty?

If you only make safe choices, what dreams will you leave behind?

What call will you ignore?

What impact will never happen?

We think taking risks is expensive. But the cost of certainty is often far greater.

Are You Pursuing the Right Vision?

This is the question I want to leave you with.

Are you chasing a vision that God has given you—or one that the world has convinced you to pursue?

Are you seeking more just for the sake of more, or are you building something that truly aligns with your values and purpose?

Are you moving forward in faith, or are you waiting for absolute certainty before you step out?

If you’re falling short in your pursuit of vision, you’re not alone.

But the good news is, you can get back on track.

Let’s Have a Conversation

I don’t share my story to tell people what to do.

I share it because I’ve been where many of you are.

I’ve chased success. I’ve built things that didn’t fulfill me. I’ve learned things the hard way.

And if my story helps even one person avoid wasting years on something that won’t satisfy them, then it is worth telling.

If you’re on this journey and looking for clarity, let’s talk.

Go to stevecook.com/contact and join the conversation.

Because life is too short to chase the wrong vision.