Hello Reader,

This week, during The READY Retreat that we run in the TimeCrafting Trust community, I was working through Day Two, which features the phases that asks us to slow down and deliberately align things. It’s the point where choices narrow and commitments take shape. As I was mapping out what belonged where, Radiohead’s Everything in Its Right Place started playing in the background.

It struck me how fitting that was. Because alignment isn’t just about getting organized — it’s about cultivating a sense of readiness.

There’s a confidence that comes when the pieces are set in a way that feels intentional. When you put something in its right place, even something small, it has a ripple effect. It reduces friction, it clears headspace, and it frees you up to move forward with less resistance.

But of course, there’s tension here. How right does “right” need to be? We can overthink it, arranging and rearranging until momentum disappears. We can also underthink it, rushing ahead and leaving things scattered in ways that trip us up later. Alignment isn’t about perfection or rigidity — it’s about creating enough rightness to allow action to happen with clarity and confidence.

That’s why this moment landed with me. The music wasn’t just background noise — it was a reminder.

The work of putting everything in its right place isn’t about control for its own sake. It’s about preparing just enough so that what comes next flows instead of fights back.

Look

In one of his earliest roles, Robert Redford (who passed away earlier this week) appeared in a Twilight Zone episode that explores fear, resistance, and what it really means to be ready for the unknown. It’s a story that lingers long after you watch it. Watch it here... for free.​

Listen

What happens when a classic productivity book gets a fresh review — and earns a perfect score? That’s what surprised me in this recent Bookworm episode – and what Mike and Cory thought about the book is definitely worth checking out. Listen to the episode here.​

By the way, the author himself has joined me twice on A Productive Conversation – here and here.

Learn

Nuance is easy to lose when the world feels chaotic, but Scott Belsky makes the case for why it matters more than ever — and tells a story that proves it. Read it here.​

The Final Flicker

Getting everything in its right place isn’t about perfection — it’s about creating enough clarity to move forward. Don’t wait for flawless. Wait for ready.

See you later,
Mike

Thanks for reading. Your time is valuable, and I don’t take it for granted. In a world pulling us in all directions, thanks for choosing The Lantern.

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