Reflective practice is the core competency required to retain a licence to practice under current medical revalidation regulations. The concept of reflection, however, is often misunderstood. Much of the confusion arises from context. In terms of professional regulation, doctors are considered safe when they demonstrate the ability to self-correct. Self-correction requires both reflection and action. In some contexts reflection without action is entirely appropriate, but in many professional contexts the quality of reflection is judged by the effectiveness of actions arising from it. This article explores the nature of reflective practice and its relationship to professional freedom and regulation.