The Webster Dictionary describes progress as “a forward or onward movement” or “gradual betterment.” That pretty much sums it up, in its simplest form. However, that brief explanation lacks details, examples, and an answer to the most significant question; how is progress achieved?
To me, progress occurs when members of a community (home, school, city, global, etc) realize some element to his/her/someone else’s life is inadequate and works to improve upon that inadequacy. Progress is made when a situation is bettered by someone’s actions.
Achieving progress is not always as simple, or as difficult as it may seem. Progress can be made on the tiniest problems in the world, to some of the greatest conflicts.
Progress can be made on those frustrating term paper notes burning holes in your backpack. All it takes is a little effort and determination on your part. Progress can be made towards saving a floundering economy. Progress can also be made on the global energy crisis or in the widespread plagues of food shortages and disease.
We don’t always need an army of people for progress to be made regarding some of the world’s greatest problems. Progress can be achieved by individual people, no matter how young, old, financially-sound, or educated. If someone feels passionately about a topic, any little positive thing they do towards their goal can be counted as progress.
You want to make a difference? You want to achieve progress? Work towards the future you want and the goals you desire. Tell others about your goals and the progress you hope to achieve. No positive step is too small; no determined voice is too quiet. Progress can be initiated by the world’s greatest leaders or by a lone member the world’s smallest communities. Anyone can work towards progress.
Progress is all about reaching forward. So reach forward! Do what you can and encourage others to do the same. We can make progress alone, or we can make progress together. YOU can make a difference. YOU can make progress regarding issues in your own life, local area, or even our global community.
