False sense of achievement

Are you creating a false sense of achievement or the illusion of progress? – Monday Mindset Check-in

What’s one thing you’ve done recently that made you feel productive, but in reality, didn’t move you closer to your real goal?

I know I have done many things before that created the illusion of progress that felt good in the moment but didn't create real change. As a motivated professional woman and busy mother, can you relate to any of these examples?

- When you join the gym, use it for a couple of weeks and then give up.

- When you read the self-help book but don’t implement the strategies.

- When you make a long to-do list but only complete one or two things on it.

- When you spend hours creating an action plan but don’t take action.

- When you attend a networking event but only talk to people you already know.

- When you research the best productivity app but don’t change your habits.

- When you sign up for the time-management webinar but don’t apply the lessons.

- When you promise yourself better work-life balance but keep saying “yes” to everything.

It’s easy to mistake preparation for action, busyness for productivity, or small wins for real momentum. These actions provide a temporary sense of achievement, but they don’t create meaningful progress.

The same goes for mum guilt - sometimes we do things that seem like they help, but they actually keep us stuck in the cycle of guilt and exhaustion.

- When you overcompensate with gifts instead of addressing the guilt of not spending enough time with your kids.

- When you say “yes” to extra playdates and activities but secretly resent the lack of time for yourself.

- When you feel guilty for working late, so you let the kids stay up longer, even though they (and you) need rest.

- When you tell yourself you need to be more present but spend your free time catching up on chores instead of enjoying quality moments.

- When you constantly apologise to your kids for being busy, instead of modelling self-compassion and balance.

💡 The real challenge is in taking the uncomfortable but necessary steps that actually move you forward.

💬 Where are you mistaking motion for progress? What’s one small but real action you can take this week to create real change? Let me know in the comments!