# Embracing Change: The Power of Reflection and Gratitude
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Chapter 1: The Importance of Pausing in Our Lives
In our fast-paced world, taking a moment to pause can spark significant transformation.
Throughout my day, I often find myself caught up in a whirlwind of tasks.
Section 1.1: The Guilt of Overworking
One evening, as I worked late on my MacBook, my wife quietly entered the room, preparing for bed. A wave of guilt washed over me—why was I working so late?
Staying late has become a guilty pleasure for me. I often sneak away to my home office or even work from bed, feeling as though I’m engaging in something I shouldn’t be. This behavior stems from what Derek Thompson describes as The Religion of Work, where the pressure to produce results and gain recognition compels us to work beyond our limits.
In my mind, I had only intended to complete a quick task, but an hour slipped by, and I lost sight of everything beyond my screen.
Section 1.2: Acknowledging the Need for Change
It’s all too easy to continue working late into the night, distracted by social media or notifications on my phone. I recall numerous discussions with my wife about the importance of being present. In a bid to disconnect, I once left my phone in another room after work, but the habit didn’t last.
Notifications from my watch quickly drew me back into work mode, proving to be one of the worst distractions from my family life. Recognizing this pattern is the first step to breaking it. It’s crucial to pause these behaviors, acknowledging that while perfection is unattainable, we can begin our journey toward change today.
Chapter 2: The Power of Mindfulness and Reflection
The first video provides insights on how to manage distractions and remain focused in your personal and professional life.
Witnessing my own habits, I closed my laptop for a moment, allowing myself to feel the guilt that accompanied my late-night work sessions. Drawing upon mindfulness techniques, I took deep breaths and observed my thoughts as they flowed past like cars on a freeway.
In these moments, clarity often arises. I pondered my work habits, emotional responses, and the path forward. What was I willing to prioritize while still maintaining focus?
Section 2.1: The Power of Memory
In my faith, the Book of Mormon emphasizes the importance of remembering—this theme appears nearly 200 times throughout its pages. It serves as a reminder of Jesus Christ and the commitments we’ve made.
In French, the verb “to remember” is reflexive; it’s an action directed toward oneself. This idea resonates with the motto of Quebec: Je me souviens.
As my wife walked by, I was reminded of my responsibilities as a husband and father, reflecting on my core values. The daily affirmations I created years ago reminded me that my worth isn’t defined by my work alone.
Section 2.2: The Importance of Gratitude
Gratitude is essential for recognizing the value in others. It plays a significant role in my identity and my work at 1–800 Contacts.
I felt thankful for recognizing the need for change. This wasn’t an act of self-praise; rather, it was an acknowledgment that we all have moments of clarity that can lead to profound personal growth.
I committed to separating my work from my home life, reviving my intentional morning routine and resetting my priorities.
Stop. Witness. Remember. Thank. This simple process can be applied in numerous aspects of our hectic lives. Taking just five minutes to step back and invest in the present can yield countless benefits.
The second video explores strategies to overcome distractions and improve focus in gaming, offering parallels for managing our daily lives effectively.