7 Meaningful Ways to Appreciate Your Progress

I’ve been working hard, setting goals, and making progress… but why does it still feel like I’m not where I want to be?

If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. 

Many of us find ourselves stuck in the “middle” of our journey–doing so much, yet still feeling like it’s not enough. We’ve been taught to celebrate only the big wins: the promotion, the graduation, the end result. But what about all the small steps that got us there?

When we overlook the in-between moments, it’s easy to feel like we’re not moving–even when we are. 

The key is to start noticing and appreciating your progress–intentionally, consistently, and kindly. 

Here are 7 simple, meaningful ways to do just that:

 

Do a One-Year Lookback

Sometimes we forget just how much can change in a year until we pause and look back. Set aside 10 quiet minutes and reflect on where you were exactly one year ago. 

Ask yourself:

What were you struggling with back then?

What have you learned ever since?

What habits, skills, or mindset shifts have improved?

Write down 3 specific ways you’ve grown. It can be emotional, personal, professional–whatever comes to mind. Remember, small changes count.

 

Track Weekly Wins

We often wait to celebrate the big wins—many of which are still unfolding. But big goals are built on small, steady steps, and unless we pause to notice them, they quietly slip by.

Start a simple log in a notebook or notes app. At the end of each week, write down: 

3 things you accomplished...

1 thing you learned...

1 moment you felt proud of...

 

The Goal Planner by The Self Hug

 

If you need structure, The Self Hug’s new version of The Goal Planner is a lovely companion–it helps you track wins while making space for rest and reflection. Just 5 minutes a day can add up to something powerful.

 

Create a “Done” List Alongside Your To-Do List.

To-do lists help us stay organized, but sometimes they can quietly remind us of what’s still unfinished instead of what we've already done.

At the end of your day, write a quick “done” list. Include what you completed from your to-dos, plus anything else you did—conversations you had, small tasks, moments of care.

It’s a gentle reminder that you’ve done more than you think.

 

Save Kind Words You Receive

Sometimes, others notice our growth before we do. When someone offers kind feedback or acknowledges your effort, let it sink in. Just pause—and receive it.

Create a folder in your phone, notes app, or inbox. Screenshot kind messages, compliments, feedback, or anything that makes you feel seen. Revisit it on the days that feel heavy—it’s a gentle way to remind yourself of the impact you’ve made and the person you’re becoming.

 

Turn Setbacks into Lessons

Progress is not linear. Sometimes we grow the most from things that didn’t go as planned. The next time something doesn’t go your way, reflect on:

What did I learn from this?

How will this help me in the future?

Writing this down can help you turn pain into power and reframe how you see your journey.

 

Redefine What Success Looks Like for You

Your version of success might not look like anyone else’s. And that’s more than okay—it’s powerful. Reflect on your personal definition of success.

What does success truly mean to you—beyond titles or achievements?

When you define success on your terms, it becomes easier to recognize and celebrate when you’re already living it.

 

Practice Gratitude for the Journey

Progress becomes more visible when we learn to slow down and appreciate the present. Instead of waiting for a “big moment”, you begin to notice the small, beautiful milestones happening everyday. 

Before bed, ask yourself: 

Today, I am grateful for…

It could be a conversation, a moment of clarity, or simply showing up when it was hard to.

Gratitude helps you stop chasing the next thing—and start noticing how much you’ve already done.

 

A Gentle Reminder

Progress isn’t always loud. It’s often quiet, steady, and unfolding behind the scenes. Instead of waiting for a finish line to feel accomplished, start recognizing the milestones you're already passing every day.

You’re further than you think.
And you’re doing better than you know.

 

About Our Author

Yanitrasari Widyastuti is a mental health therapist and wellness consultant with a background in psychology and counselling, dedicated to empowering others on their journey to well-being. She believes in the power of empathy to inspire self-discovery and growth. Based in Jakarta, Indonesia, she begins her day with a morning walk to her favorite spot for coffee, embracing small rituals that ground her in the present.