One’s life begins on so many occasions, constructing itself out of accident derived from coincidence compounded by character

“One’s life begins on so many occasions, constructing itself out of accident derived from coincidence compounded by character.”

Donald Hall, 20th Century American poet, writer, editor and literary critic

Image from Unsplash by Kyle Glenn

How often do you reflect on your life and how you arrived at where you are today?

What are some of the pivotal moments—big and small—that changed your life direction and set you on different paths than those you intended?

Although we wish to believe that we have complete control over our lives and can be self-determined, we can all see countless examples in which that was not the case.

Accidents, coincidences, and serendipity play a considerable role in where we end up.

Fortunately,  our character—which we develop over time—act as a gyroscope to help us regain our headings when certain events knock us off course.

EXERCISE:

What are some of the essential elements of your character?

How have they kept you centered and stable over the years, to keep your life unfolding as you intend?