create a hostage to fortune

To do or say something that could jeopardize future success or cause misfortune later on. With the economy at such a precarious level at the moment, the president made it clear that he would take no action that would create a hostage to fortune. A company that publicly supports an unpopular political stance often creates a hostage to fortune. Don't make any promises on the campaign trail that could create a hostage to fortune for you down the line.