see past the end of (one's) nose

Typically used in negative constructions in both usages.

1. To be able to foresee problems, issues, or obligations beyond the present or immediate future. Our boss is ambitious, but she has trouble seeing past the end of her nose when it comes to scheduling projects with realistic deadlines. When I was younger, I could never see past the end of my nose—planning for the future just didn't interest me.

2. To be able to notice or focus on anything beside oneself. Jim is too concerned about getting ahead in business. We need a manager who's able to see past the end of his nose to do what's in the best interest of the company. Elizabeth is so worried about how this situation will affect her that she can't see past the end of her nose anymore.