The Illusion of Progress – James Barbour
There was a time when I equated being busy with being productive. My schedule was full, my phone never stopped, and every night ended with that same quiet reassurance: I worked hard today.
But one afternoon, sitting with a cup of tea and a half-finished project open on my laptop, I realized something uncomfortable—despite all the activity, I wasn’t actually advancing. I was circling the same spot, convincing myself that motion meant momentum.
High achievers fall into that trap easily. We thrive on forward movement, on staying occupied. But busyness can become a clever disguise for avoidance. It feels safe because it looks successful.
What I’ve learned is this: progress isn’t about doing more; it’s about doing what matters—on purpose.
That day, I closed every tab, silenced the noise, and asked one question:
“What am I really trying to move forward right now?”
The answer didn’t come right away—but the quiet that followed gave me clarity.
When you slow down long enough to listen, you rediscover your direction. The noise fades, and what’s left is focus.
So this week, before diving into your list, take a breath and ask yourself:
“Is this movement or momentum?”
Real progress doesn’t rush.
It focuses.
See you out there, moving with purpose.
— James Barbour®
From the Star Power® series on clarity, purpose, and performance.
🔗 Related Links
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Read more reflections on JamesBarbourNow.Substack.com
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Listen to The Star Power® Podcast → JamesBarbourPodcast.com
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Explore programs → YourStarPower.com