Progress Tracking
Progress tracking is the use of tools and processes to ensure goals are achieved in an organized and competent manner. As human beings, when we rely on our brains to keep track of objectives, there is a tendency for slip-ups to occur. Using a structured and well thought out process to track progress will lead to improved efficiency and increased productivity.
Why is progress tracking important?
1. To track if progress is being made
When targets are set, periodical checkpoints or milestones can be used for ease of tracking progress, as it would reduce the chances of missing objectives that may be required to achieve targets.
2. Evaluate path taken to achieve goals
There is usually more than one method for solving a problem, selecting the most efficient from the get-go will help to achieve targets with maximum efficiency.
3. Reinforce knowledge
Going through notes or journals at end of the day is a proven method of repetitive learning which will help reinforce new knowledge.
How to track progress?
1. Set target goals
Having an end goal is the first step, because from here on out operations towards tracking and achieving the set goal can be put in motion.
2. Prepare tools
With the right tools, productivity will improve dramatically. An example of such tool is a journal, which can be used to track progress by keeping a schedule or providing a plan on how certain projects or tasks should be accomplished.
3. Mindful work
This refers to work with absolute focus and neglecting distractions that may split focus. This can be achieved by using apps that look after your digital well-being, its sole purpose to ensure that during work hours or periods when maximum concentration is required, apps or notifications that are not a high priority during that period will be ignored or suspended.
4. Talk to a friend/mentor
Having someone who will hold you accountable, will further gear you towards meeting your goals because you wouldn’t want to disappoint said individual due to the respect you have for such person and your self-image.
5. Vision board
When simultaneously working on several projects, there are usually multiple tasks that need to carry out, to accomplish set goals. There is a tendency to forget one of such tasks if we rely on our brain. Hence, it is easier to accomplish and keep track of the tasks when they are listed out on the vision board.
Article courtesy of Daniel Sumah and GemMine team.
