How Recognizing Progress Can Improve Health

Psychologists such as Viktor Frankl have long maintained that experiencing progress toward a goal is essential to a meaningful and fulfilling life - but it can be tough to notice and recognize progress when living with a learning disability. In school, children who excel are most commonly recognized and encouraged, while children who struggle are constantly reminded of their gaps in mastery. Because of this, it is even more imperative to take the time to track, identify, and recognize progress in the face of a learning disability - no matter how incremental.

When you experience progress toward a goal, your body releases dopamine into the brain, creating a sense of pleasure and elevating mood. This keeps you focused and motivated - and it also affects bodily functions such as heart rate, sleep, movement, and mood. In this way, progress can help stave off anxiety and situational depression by rewarding you for your efforts.

Progress also builds confidence. Low confidence can often leave you apathetic regarding health, diet, and relationships. But as you achieve milestones and enjoy the fruits of your labor, you start to gain greater self-respect and appreciation for your own capabilities. You are more likely to make good decisions like exercising, eating healthy food, and avoiding toxic relationships - all of which bolster overall health and well-being.

Finally, the experience of progress helps build momentum. Regularly tracking and recognizing progress toward a goal maintains constant motivation. This means you don’t stop (and have to re-start) your work as often - and that means you achieve your goals faster! Each success then opens up an opportunity to move on to another goal, and another after that.

Take the time to compare current performance to past performance, notice improvements, and reflect on achievements. Progress is essential for improving attention, boosting mood, maintaining motivation, and promoting healthy choices - but the key is to recognize and experience progress when it has been made.