Its not about the progress...
The Check-in 039
Hi! Checking in—how are you reeeeallly feeling?
Last week marked the official start of fall, but we all start to feel that seasonal mindset shift happening the Tuesday after Labor Day. The carefree summer attitude fades and is replaced by an unspoken pressure to ramp up and make progress.
This seasonal shift usually energizes us. We are eager to sprint toward our goals like racehorses bursting out of the gate. It’s not surprising because our brains are wired to crave progress. Each time we hit a milestone, we get a dopamine boost. This rush of happiness keeps us driven and hungry for more.
However, if you’re not feeling that post-Labor Day motivation, don’t worry—you’re not alone. Many clients expect to feel rested and ready to take massive action after summer. Still, despite their efforts, they felt stuck. It begins to feel disappointing- a perceived lack of drive- and they become desperate to regain momentum.
This is experiencing what I call “progress paralysis.”
When progress doesn’t meet our expectations, dopamine levels drop. Then everything starts to feel harder, and motivation dries up. All of this creates a downward spiral: stalled progress leads to frustration, procrastination, and avoidance. As time passes, we drift further from our goals therefore increasing feelings of doubt and discouragement. When reality doesn’t match our expectations, we feel defeated. We tend to lose sight of why we started, and are more likely to stay stuck, burn out, or abandon our goals altogether.
Shift from “Progress” to “Process”
he good news: We can BREAK FREE from progress paralysis by shifting our focus from progress to process.
Embracing the process allows you to let go of the pressure to constantly achieve and be more present in the journey. I know it sounds cliché ( or like something you’d roll your eyes at on a motivational mug) but by freeing ourselves from rigid expectations, we open up space for creativity. Start to approach challenges as opportunities- this builds resilience, patience, and self-compassion—qualities that often serve us more than the actual achievement.
Here’s how to start making that shift:
Change Your Language: Instead of saying, “I’m a work in progress,” try, “I’m in process.” This small shift relieves the pressure and stops reinforcing the idea of constantly needing to achieve.
Reframe Setbacks: Rather than getting discouraged by setbacks, view them as opportunities to learn or pivot. Often, they lead to outcomes better than you originally imagined.
Trust Your Timeline: Stop comparing yourself to others. You’re on your own path, and it’s exactly where you need to be (even when it doesn’t feel like it).
Redefine Success: It’s not just about hitting milestones; it’s about showing up, even when things feel uncertain or difficult.
Celebrate Small Wins: Don’t wait for big milestones to feel accomplished. Celebrate consistency, effort, or trying something new—those moments matter! Here’s how to start making that shift:
Progress is important—it gives us direction and helps us grow. But life isn’t defined by achievements alone. There’s always a gap between where we are and where we want to be. That’s where embracing the process becomes powerful. It frees you from the pressure and allows you to explore, learn, and let life unfold with possibility.
So this season (or any) instead of fixating on progress, give yourself permission to grow at your own pace and trust that where you are right now is a vital part of the journey.
With gratitude,
Alexandra
www.coachingbyaw.com
IG: @coaching_by_aw
P.S. If you’re facing “progress paralysis” or struggling with the pressure of “not being where you’re supposed to be” let’s talk. We’ll uncover what’s holding you back, and together, design a path that allows you to achieve your desires. Schedule a complimentary coaching call here