More than 20 years ago, I received a planning notebook/calendar as a gift. The sophisticated notebook came with an audio tutorial for new users.

One of the first lessons: Set aside time at the beginning and end of each day for planning and solitude.

In recent months, I’ve followed this morning-evening practice more consistently than ever.

Silence and reflection produce remarkable insights. In reviewing notes jotted on the pages over the years, I see growth as well as patterns, habits, if you will, which could yet be changed.