Progress & Goals

Meaning

To gradually develop, grow, or accumulate something through consistent effort over time.

Example

"She built up her freelance client base over three years before going full-time."

Conversation questions

• What's something you're currently trying to build up — a skill, a habit, or a network?
• How do you stay consistent when building something that takes a long time to pay off?

Meaning

To make ongoing, directed effort in the direction of a goal — not a single action, but a sustained process.

Example

"Every decision he makes is part of something larger he's been working towards for years."

Conversation questions

• What's the most meaningful thing you're working towards right now?
• How do you stay focused on what you're working towards when distractions pile up?

Meaning

To complete something you started or committed to — to actually do what you said you would do.

Example

"She had brilliant ideas but rarely followed through, which eventually hurt her reputation."

Conversation questions

• What makes it hard to follow through on things? What helps you do it?
• How important is it to you that the people around you follow through on their commitments?

Meaning

To begin a journey, project, or plan with a clear intention or goal in mind.

Example

"When she set out to write the report, she had no idea how complicated it would become."

Conversation questions

• Think of a goal you set out to achieve — did it go the way you planned?
• What's the difference between setting out with a clear plan and just winging it?

Meaning

To use something already achieved or established as a foundation to develop further — rather than starting from scratch.

Example

"Instead of starting over, they built on last year's strategy and refined what had already worked."

Conversation questions

• What's a past success or skill you'd like to build on?
• Why is it sometimes better to build on something rather than starting completely over?

Meaning

To expand beyond your current area of expertise, routine, or comfort zone — to try new directions.

Example

"After five years in sales, she decided to branch out and move into product management."

Conversation questions

• Is there a direction you've been thinking about branching out into?
• What's the risk of branching out — and what's the risk of never doing it?