Every action we take—or fail to take—has an impact on our progress. When striving toward personal or professional goals, a simple but powerful question can guide decision-making:
“Does this bring me closer to my goals, keep me stagnant, or push me farther away?”
This question serves as a mental filter, helping us evaluate our choices and ensure they align with our desired outcomes. Understanding how our actions contribute to progress, maintain the status quo, or create setbacks can lead to more intentional decision-making.
1. Moving Closer to Your Goals
Every choice that supports growth, learning, or productivity is a step forward. Progress isn’t always immediate or dramatic, but consistent positive actions compound over time.
Indicators You’re Moving Closer:
✅ You are making progress, even if it’s slow. Small wins—like learning a new skill, networking with the right people, or saving a little money—add up.
✅ Your actions align with your long-term vision. Each choice should serve as a stepping stone toward your goals, even if the benefits aren’t instant.
✅ You’re improving skills and habits. Growth often happens through consistency—reading, training, practicing, and refining processes all contribute to long-term success.
✅ You feel challenged but capable. Discomfort from growth is a sign of progress, while complacency is a sign of stagnation.
Example of Forward Movement:
- A salesperson who dedicates time to learning new sales techniques is improving their skill set and career prospects.
- An entrepreneur who consistently builds relationships with potential clients is actively creating opportunities.
- An athlete who trains regularly and follows a disciplined regimen is getting closer to peak performance.
2. No Movement: Stagnation
Stagnation occurs when you remain in the same place—neither moving forward nor backward. While it may feel safe, staying still for too long can lead to missed opportunities and lost momentum.
Indicators You’re Stagnant:
➖ You repeat the same routines without progress. If you’re busy but not seeing results, you may be stuck in a cycle that doesn’t contribute to growth.
➖ You rely on past achievements instead of building new ones. Growth requires continuous effort; resting too long on previous successes can stall progress.
➖ You feel uninspired and lack a clear direction. If your goals feel distant or irrelevant, you may be stuck in a comfort zone.
Example of Stagnation:
- A professional who has been in the same role for years without learning new skills or seeking advancement is in a stagnant position.
- Someone who consistently makes plans to improve but never takes action remains in the same spot.
- An athlete who works out but doesn’t push themselves beyond their comfort level won’t improve performance.
Stagnation isn’t always negative; sometimes, a temporary pause allows for reflection. However, prolonged stagnation without a plan for action can become a problem.
3. Moving Farther Away from Your Goals
Some choices don’t just slow progress—they actively push you in the wrong direction. Negative habits, poor decision-making, or lack of discipline can undo previous work and create additional obstacles.
Indicators You’re Moving Backward:
❌ Your actions contradict your goals. If your choices make success harder instead of easier, you’re likely moving in the wrong direction.
❌ You engage in habits that create setbacks. Procrastination, distractions, and poor time management all hinder progress.
❌ You avoid challenges instead of facing them. Fear of failure or resistance to change can lead to regression.
Example of Moving Backward:
- A business owner who ignores financial planning and overspends may find themselves in debt instead of growing their company.
- A student who neglects studying and prioritizes distractions may fall behind academically.
- An athlete who skips training sessions and makes poor lifestyle choices will see performance decline.
Negative momentum can be difficult to reverse, making it important to recognize these patterns early and take corrective action.
How to Make More Decisions That Move You Forward
If you find yourself stuck or moving backward, use this framework to course-correct:
1. Ask Yourself This Question Before Every Decision:
- Does this action align with my long-term goal?
- Is this choice productive, neutral, or destructive to my progress?
2. Make Small, Consistent Progress
- Even minor steps forward are better than standing still.
- Prioritize daily habits that contribute to your long-term success.
3. Eliminate What’s Holding You Back
- Identify distractions, inefficiencies, or bad habits that slow you down.
- Surround yourself with people who push you toward growth, not complacency.
4. Commit to Learning & Adaptability
- The most successful people consistently learn, adapt, and seek new challenges.
- Be open to change and willing to adjust your strategy when necessary.
Final Thought: Your Future Is Built One Decision at a Time
Every choice you make moves you closer, nowhere, or farther from your goals. The key to success is consistently choosing actions that build momentum in the right direction. By evaluating your decisions through this simple framework, you can ensure that you are always progressing toward your desired future.
