This first episode introduces why Ben created The 20-Something Toolkit — to support 20-somethings beyond standard college advising, career centers, and generic life advice. It sets the foundation for the entire series.

If you want to make better decisions, learn faster, and feel less stuck as you move through your 20s, this is the place to start.

The episode features a real 20-something case study that shows what critical reflection actually looks like in practice — not overthinking, not self-criticism, but a disciplined way to pause, assess, and realign.

Your 20s are filled with high-stakes decisions about education, relationships, career direction, and identity. Yet most of us were never explicitly taught how to reflect in a way that helps us stay on track.

By the end of this episode, you’ll be able to apply a simple 3-step approach to critical reflection that can help you navigate your Defining Decade with more clarity and confidence.

Now, It's YOUR TURN!

Take 5–10 minutes today to try the 3-step Critical Reflection process:

Step 1 - Awareness. What has been happening in your life recently? Where do you feel energized, and where do you feel drained or stuck?

Step 2 - Critique. Choose one situation and look deeper. What is really going on? What assumptions might you be making? Is this moving you toward — or away from — the life you want?

Step 3 - Realign. Identify one small, concrete action you can take tomorrow to move slightly in a better direction.

Please share your experience in the comments! Is this useful? What area of your life did you relfect on? Any insights to share?