Photography by Bekah Beckman from Dupe
Knowing that we have habits and rituals to create the best versions of ourselves is enough to say that we're in progress, but we all know that deep inside, we need a bit more to keep us going.
Because finding outside recognition isn't something we can always count on (but a thing we'll always welcome!), it's best to practice the beautiful art of noticing and appreciating milestones, big or small.
While big promotions and step-ups are always the most noticeable indicators of progress, here are some of the more unappreciated signs that you should keep going:
It reflects outside
Photography by cottonbro studio from Pexels
Progress requires a lot of inner work, and we often overlook the importance of doing it because it's not something we can easily flaunt.
However, working on the deeper layers of ourselves reflects what is seen on the surface. Try to think: while the new solid workout you picked up a few months ago seems like the only reason you feel stronger and more confident with how you carry yourself, your commitment and discipline do the heavy lifting behind the scenes. Additionally, we look and feel more glowing when we practice gratitude and see the beauty in everything. The moment we feel like we stand a little taller and hold our chins a bit higher in aspects we never saw we would is how we know that we've made progress— even when it's only noticeable to ourselves!
No turning back
Photography by Morgana Parravicini from Dupe
Whenever we self-reflect, it's a great sign when we can look back at specific parts of our lives and say that there's no turning back to old ways without heaviness. We feel like it's a part of our journey leading us to where we are now and that we've developed a standard of living that suits us the most.
It never has to be big, but the simple way of finding better ways to do things or looking at things a bit differently in a way that's better for our mental and emotional state are indicators that we've grown. While we're shedding parts of our old selves because of this, it's always for the good of who we are and who we can be.
The domino effect
Photography by Annie Bradshaw from Dupe
From the inner work that results to the outer glow to being able to look back at our journey with gratitude to our past selves, one of the signs that progress is in our way is when we're able to share progress' fruits with others.
May it be the extra time of the day to connect mindfully with a loved one from us seeing the value of intention or being able to fill others' cups since we can spare our energy, progress can create a domino effect that spreads positively to whatever we interact with. When we feel like we share more, feel more, or connect more with our environment and people when we find that it's something that used to lack in our lives, we're on the way.
The art of appreciation
Try to look at your journey so far. Grab a piece of paper, or spare a new note on your phone. What changes have happened in your life? Which aspects haven’t been accounted for? How do each of them make you feel? Make it a practice to list down the positive changes you’ve experienced— big or small. Celebrate them and see how encouraging it is to acknowledge the quiet, more uncelebrated signs of progress.