Responsiveness encompasses three things:

Research has found that in recalling an experience, we ignore most of what happened and focus instead on a few particular moments.

A defining moment must include at least one of these elements—it does not have to include all four.

Purpose is defined as the sense that you are contributing to others, that your work has a broader meaning.

Peaks don’t emerge naturally. They must be built.                

• It is hard to be courageous, but it’s easier when you’ve practiced, and when you stand up, others will join you.  
• Managing fear—the goal of exposure therapy—is a critical part of courage. 
• Moments, when we display courage, make us proud. We never know when c...

Three situations constitute natural defining moments and deserve our attention:

Hitting a milestone sparks pride. It should also spark a celebration—a moment of elevation. (Don’t forget that milestones, along with pits and transitions, are three natural defining moments that deserve extra attention.) Milestones deserve peaks.

Defining moments stand out, they influence us, cause us to rethink our direction, re-shape the trajectory of our lives.

There are three practical principles we can use to create more moments of pride:

Moments of elevation lift us above the everyday. Moments of insight spark discoveries about our world and ourselves. Moments of pride capture us at our best—showing courage, earning recognition, conquering challenges.