Progress can be difficult to recognise when the result you want is still some distance away.
If you only count the final outcome, useful movement can become invisible.
Define the change you are looking for
Progress needs a direction. What would be different if things were improving?
Look for evidence, not just effort
Being busy is not automatically progress. Ask what has changed because of the work you have done.
Include decisions and learning
A clear decision, a boundary set or an assumption tested can be meaningful progress even before the final result appears.
Notice behaviour as well as outcomes
Some outcomes depend partly on other people or circumstances. You can still measure whether your own actions are becoming more consistent.
Review direction regularly
Progress towards the wrong destination is not useful. Check that the outcome still matters as you learn more.
Explore: Busy Is Not the Same as Making Progress explores the difference between activity and movement.