The Always Anchor

This reflection explores another unseen anchor: The Always Anchor.

An absolute that offers structure, security, efficiency, and certainty.

We “always” do things this way.
How we begin.
How we solve problems.
How we adapt.

We hear it at home, in school, at work.
In how our family functions.
In how teachers and coaches train us.
In what employers demand—and reward.

At home, “always” is often associated with good outcomes:
a reliable way to cook,
a proven fix when something breaks,
a familiar path that feels safe and sensible.

At school, effort and discipline lead to grades, honors, approval.

At work, established rules and processes promise results and promotions.

Over time, we grow up accepting “always” as the norm.
“Always” offers predictability.
It reduces uncertainty.
It minimizes error.
It provides a sense of security—up to a point.

It feels like an anchor.

Until it isn’t.

“Always” earns trust by having been tested and affirmed—until it’s taken for granted.

It stops working when the decisions we make unsettle us instead of grounding us.

Where in your life is “always” serving you well?

Where does it quietly restrict you?

When “always” no longer holds, what steadies you?

•••••••••

© My-Tien Vo – December 15, 2025