What If You’re Closer Than You Think?

The middle part of the climb is always the most difficult.

The climb toward a big goal often feels endless. Progress may feel slow, setbacks can sting, and sometimes it’s tempting to question whether you’re even moving forward. But here’s what many overlook: you’re often a lot closer than you think.

Progress Isn’t Always Visible — Here’s Why

When we measure success only by outcomes—the promotion, the major win, the breakthrough—we miss the incremental progress happening along the way:

• Negativity bias keeps us focused on what’s wrong instead of what’s right.

• As what was once difficult becomes familiar, we gloss over how far we’ve come.

• Growth is nonlinear—messy, filled with plateaus and setbacks.

• The goalposts shift as soon as we reach them, giving little time to celebrate.

• Comparing yourself to others’ highlights blinds you to your own real progress.

  
  

When You Feel Stuck, Try This Perspective Shift

Instead of asking, “Why am I not there yet?” try reframing:

• What have I learned that I didn’t know six months ago?

• If my past self could see me now, what would they be proud of?

You might realize you’re not stuck—you’re in the middle of the climb.

Keep Climbing—with Clear Eyes and Compassion

Progress is happening beneath the surface. Intentional perspective reveals it. If you're ready to get clearer on how far you've come and where you're headed—especially within the Toronto leadership landscape—coaching can help.