The Yardstick of Progress

Excellence is never an accident. It is always the result of high intention, sincere effort, and intelligent execution; it represents the wise choice of many alternatives - choice, not chance, determines your destiny.

– Aristotle.

You've created your roadmap, highlighted the key milestones, and have started on your path. You want to make sure this plan succeeds and how will you know unless you see how far you’ve come?

Take a moment to look back at the ground you've covered. Celebrate the peaks you've climbed and the milestones you've crossed. But remember, these markers are steps on your ladder to excellence, not the end itself.

As you reflect, you learn. Your past victories may shrink in comparison to your future goals, and the failures you once mourned could now be lessons in disguise. Embrace each win and every stumble. They are proof of your journey, tangible markers of your dedication.

An important part of this reflection is feedback. Not from external voices, but from within. Don't hide from the truth, even if it's painful; the pain and discomfort you feel is evidence you’ve grown. Are you moving as swiftly as you'd planned? If not, why? There's no shame in admitting a slowdown. What matters is recognizing it, understanding its causes, and deciding on a course of action.

Motion doesn't necessarily imply progress and busyness can distract you from your real goals. Look beyond the hustle, beyond the noise to scrutinize your current position against your plan. Is your effort leading you to growth, or are you merely shadowboxing?

Be careful to not go so far as to reprimand yourself, the goal here is simply for self-realization. It's about ensuring every step, every decision, is aimed at getting better. You are the architect of your journey. You decide the height, the path, and how you measure your growth.

Steer with honesty. Excellence is not a bed for complacency. Let the applause not be your only gauge of progress. Instead, focus on the reflection that stares back at you in the mirror.

Choices, not chance. Execution, not just planning. Progress, not just motion. This is your mantra. Now move, choose excellence and keep winning.