Step 4: Finding Time for Reflection

Life moves fast, and it’s easy to get caught up in the whirlwind of daily routines, deadlines, and distractions. But without taking a moment to pause and reflect, we risk losing sight of what truly matters. It’s like being one degree off course on a flight—at first, it’s barely noticeable, but over time, you end up far from where you intended to go.

In Craft Your Character, step four is all about making time for reflection. This step has been transformative in my own life, and I believe it’s essential for anyone looking to live with purpose and clarity.

Why Reflection Is So Important

Life doesn’t stay the same. Our circumstances, environments, and even our values change over time. The goals I had when I was 18 are very different from what drives me now. That’s why it’s so important to ask yourself regularly:

• Am I still heading in the direction I want to go?
• Are my current goals and actions aligned with who I am today?

Reflection is also about understanding that the journey matters just as much as the destination. Achieving a goal is great, but the real reward is in who we become along the way. Even if you don’t reach the summit, the climb itself shapes you.

How I Practice Reflection

For me, reflection isn’t a one-size-fits-all process. It can be as simple as taking 10 minutes at the end of each day or as profound as spending a few days completely unplugged in nature. Here are some practices I’ve found helpful:

• Daily Check-ins: I like to start or end my day by asking myself a few simple questions: How am I feeling? Did I spend my time in alignment with my values today?
• Weekly or Monthly Reviews: I set aside time to evaluate my progress on personal and professional goals. This helps me spot patterns—am I focusing on what’s important, or am I getting sidetracked?
• Annual Reflection Retreats: One of the most powerful experiences I’ve had was a vision quest at Loughcrew, an ancient site in Ireland. I spent three days in solitude, reflecting on my direction and reconnecting with what’s important to me. That time gave me incredible clarity and a renewed sense of purpose.

Whether it’s a short daily practice or a more in-depth retreat, reflection allows us to recalibrate and make sure we’re still on the right path.

Living with Purpose

Although I’m not a parent yet, I’ve often thought about the example I’d like to set for my future children. Living with purpose and pursuing what truly matters isn’t just about personal fulfillment—it’s about inspiring those around you.

When you reflect on your life and realign with your values, you become a role model, showing others that it’s possible to live intentionally and with meaning. Whether it’s your kids, your friends, or your community, living your purpose has a ripple effect.

Don’t Skip This Step

If you’re feeling stuck or uncertain about your direction, I encourage you to make time for reflection. It’s not a luxury; it’s a necessity. Without it, we risk drifting through life, going wherever the currents take us. But with it, we can course-correct, align with our true purpose, and live more intentionally.

So, whether you take 10 minutes today or plan a weekend retreat, start where you are. You’ll be amazed at the clarity and motivation that can come from simply taking a moment to reflect.

If you’d like to dive deeper into this step and the others, you can check out Craft Your Character here.