Real Progress Happens in the Moment
“Yesterday is gone. Tomorrow has not yet come. We have only today. Let us begin.”
– Mother Teresa
The Illusion of Progress
In a world obsessed with outcomes, it’s easy to believe that progress lies somewhere in the future - just beyond the next goal, the next milestone, the next success story. We plan, predict, and push ourselves, often forgetting that the only time progress can truly happen is now.
This might sound counterintuitive, especially in professional environments where future targets and strategic KPIs dominate our attention. But neuroscience confirms what ancient sages have always taught: real change is not a future event - it is a present action.
Wisdom from the Sutras: Now Is the Practice
Patanjali Yoga Sutra’s very first Sutra states, “Atha yoganushasanam” – “Now, the discipline of yoga begins.”
Sri Sri Ravi Shankar explains that the word “now” is not casual. It is a call to presence. No transformation is possible without anchoring our awareness in the present.
In Leadology coaching, we’ve seen how clients shift profoundly when they stop obsessing over what should be and start fully engaging with what is. Clarity, breakthroughs, and inspired results emerge not from the past or future - but from a state of full presence.
The Neuroscience of Presence
Modern neuroscience agrees. Research shows that when our brain is focused on the present moment, it activates the prefrontal cortex - the area responsible for decision-making, creativity, and emotional regulation. Conversely, ruminating on the past or anxiously projecting into the future activates the brain’s default mode network, which is often linked to stress, anxiety, and mental fatigue.
In essence, mindfulness isn’t a luxury - it’s a productivity tool. The more grounded we are in the moment, the more resourceful, creative, and resilient we become.
So What Does Progress in the Moment Look Like?
It’s the leader who pauses before reacting.
The individual who takes a mindful breath before speaking.
The team that chooses to listen deeply rather than rush to solutions.
The parent who fully engages with their child, even for five minutes.
These small acts of presence are not insignificant. They are the seeds of lasting growth.
How to Anchor into the Now
Here are a few simple practices we recommend in our Leadology coaching sessions to bring you back to the moment:
Name Your Now: Pause and name what you are experiencing - emotionally, mentally, physically. Labeling feelings interrupts autopilot behaviour.
Micro-Mindfulness: Set a 2-minute timer. Close your eyes and simply follow your breath. No fixing. Just noticing.
Ask This Question: “What is one thing I can do right now that aligns with who I want to become?”
Use Transitions Wisely: Every time you switch tasks or enter a new space, take one conscious breath. Let go. Begin again.
Self-Reflection Questions
Where in your life are you waiting for “someday” to feel successful, happy, or fulfilled?
What would shift if you believed that progress happens only in the present moment?
Try This: Progress in Practice
Activity 1:
Write down three moments from today where you were fully present. What made that possible?
Activity 2:
For one week, end your day by journaling this: How did I show up today? Was I in the moment, or somewhere else?
Reflect and recommit daily.
The Power of Now Is the Power to Change
Progress is not a destination. It is a decision made in the now.
Whether you’re guiding a team, parenting, or navigating personal growth - your ability to be present is your greatest leverage. Presence turns action into transformation. It turns effort into insight. And it turns ordinary moments into extraordinary growth.
So the next time your mind races ahead or loops behind, remember: real progress isn’t later - it’s now.
Ready to deepen your clarity and unlock results?
Book a complimentary session below to explore how we can support your journey toward greater clarity, progress, and fulfilment.