FeelingGoodWithSofy

Many times we tend to define progress as something big—something that needs to be visible in order to be celebrated and appreciated. You might think that you constantly have to be perfect in whatever you are doing, whether that means always keeping a flawless morning routine, working without making mistakes, or strictly adhering to a diet. The truth is, you are not meant to be perfect. You are human. It’s also healthy to lose your way sometimes, as long as you find your way back. Progress is measured neither by perfection nor by a restricted timeline, but rather by how you work toward your goals and how you treat yourself along the way. You can have all the discipline in the world and still have days where you find it hard to be on track—and that’s okay. ❤️

A Peek Into My Own Journey

I would not be writing about this if I hadn’t lived it myself. There was a time, indeed, when I thought that I had to do something remarkable in order to make progress. But over the last few years of my life, living with depression made big accomplishments feel impossible—and honestly, it still does. Instead, I’m learning that even the smallest steps count. They are a quiet testament to my resilience. I don’t take any of it for granted anymore, especially on a healing journey that moves as slowly as mine. ❤️

When Perfection isn’t the Goal

This theme came specifically to the surface yesterday morning. My mood was low, and I just didn’t feel like doing anything. I prepared a warm cup of tea and curled up in bed, devoid of energy. I didn’t feel like meditating, journaling, or even picking up my feel-good book. I felt on edge and disappointed in myself, convinced I was failing. But while lying there listening to an audiobook, a character said, “Take a deep breath.” It grounded me. I took a couple of deep breaths through my tears and acknowledged that I was dealing with a difficult day. It proved that I can’t always stick to my morning routines, that it’s okay to let my inner expectations drop, and that I should welcome self-compassion instead.

Being Okay With Your Progress

Reclaiming your relationship with progress isn’t about letting go of your goals; it’s about shifting how you define success along the way. It’s okay if, for example, you don’t regularly follow your routines or your diet—that is an invitation to be kinder and more compassionate to yourself. Progress is a journey, too. Some days you’ll feel unstoppable and productive, while other times things will move slower or be harder. We don’t need to take progress so heavily—it should be a light, motivating source, something designed to give you inspiration, and make you keep going. ✨

Mental Health and Progress

Self-compassion becomes even more vital if you’re dealing with a mental health condition. When you’re feeling low and anxious, accomplishing even the smallest task can feel overwhelming. Just thinking about tasks drains your energy, perhaps leaving you feeling worthless and more insecure than ever. So, it’s crucial to acknowledge that what you manage to accomplish today is already enough—no matter how small or big.

When you have a to-do list and don’t get to everything, disappointment easily creeps in. But instead of focusing on what is left undone, try congratulating yourself for what you managed to achieve. It’s okay if you don’t have the energy to do everything you planned to do. Embrace even the smallest steps—like washing your face or talking to your therapist. Remember that progress isn’t a universal standard; what is progress for me isn’t progress for you and vice versa. ❤️

Final Thoughts

It’s human not to always be on track—that is part of progress, too. Try not to focus solely on what you left behind, but rather honour your small wins. No matter how hard it can be from time to time to accept life’s hurdles in the moment, remember this: every single time you dare to take a step forward, you win. ❤️

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