Values versus time audit reveals where your life is misaligned
Here's one of the most clarifying exercises I know. Take a blank piece of paper and draw a line down the middle. On the left, write five things that are most important to you in life. On the right, write the five activities you spend most of your time doing. Be completely honest about your time allocation. Then compare the two lists. Inner friction and conflicts act like misaligned car wheels — they drain energy and reduce your effectiveness across everything. Being out of alignment robs you of energy; alignment creates freedom and flow. Most people who feel stuck or exhausted aren't lazy — they're misaligned. The method you use to build wealth matters as much as the outcome, because the how determines whether it's sustainable and satisfying over time.
Relevant Clips4
- Answer0:10
The Method of Getting Rich Matters as Much as the Amount
Eben explains that the method matters more than the outcome because many people are skilled at accumulating wealth while leaving destruction, damaged relationships, and reputation problems. The 'how' determines long-term sustainability and satisfaction.
- Answer1:05
Why How You Make Money Matters More Than How Much
Get a blank paper and draw a line down the middle. Left side: write 5 things most important to you in life. Right side: write 5 activities you spend most time doing. Be honest about time allocation and compare the lists.
- Answer1:12
Two-Column Life Alignment Exercise in Five Minutes
Draw a line down the middle of a paper. On the left, write 5 things most important to you in life. On the right, write the 5 activities you spend the most time doing. Compare the lists to see misalignment.
- Answer
How Inner Friction Drains Energy and Reduces Effectiveness
Inner friction and conflicts act like misaligned car wheels, draining energy and reducing effectiveness. Being out of alignment robs you of energy, while alignment creates freedom and flow.