If you recognize these 7 signs, you’re doing better in life than you think

There’s a common saying, “We are our own worst critics.” It’s easy to overlook our wins and zoom in on our failures, thinking we’re falling behind in life.

But what if I told you that you’re doing better than you think you are? That there are signs, often overlooked, that show you’re actually on the right track.

In this article, I’ll be sharing seven such signs.

If you recognize these in your life, take a moment to give yourself some well-deserved credit.

1) You’re setting goals and achieving them

Did you know that according to some sources, 92% of people do not follow through on their New Year’s resolutions?

Yep, 92%! But why am I telling you this?

Because of the most unmistakable signs that you’re doing better in life than you think is your ability to set goals and achieve them.

This doesn’t mean you have to conquer Mount Everest. It could be as simple as setting a goal to read a book every month, learning a new skill, or keeping up with your fitness routine.

The fact that you’re making plans for your future, no matter how small they might seem, shows that you’re moving forward. And achieving these goals?

Well, that’s just the cherry on top!

Not everyone has the determination or the ability to plan ahead. If you’re doing this, give yourself a pat on the back. 

2) You’re learning from your mistakes

I’ll let you in on a personal secret. There was a time when I would beat myself up over every little mistake I made. Sounds familiar, doesn’t it?

But over time, I realized that making mistakes is a part of life. And more importantly, learning from these mistakes is what truly matters.

In fact, the biggest turning point in my life was when I messed up a major project at work.

It was tough to face it, but I chose to learn from my mistake instead of wallowing in self-pity.

Today, I can confidently say that I’ve grown tremendously from that experience.

If you’re able to see your mistakes as learning opportunities and not as failures, then trust me, you’re doing much better in life than you think. It’s all about perspective!

3) You have some close relationships

Did you know that 8% of people in the USA say they have no close friends?

That’s almost 1 in 10. Shocking, right?

However, studies like the Harvard Study of Adult Development have consistently shown that quality relationships are among the strongest predictors of happiness and longevity.

Having a few close people to rely on—those who support you during tough times, celebrate your victories, and are there when life gets hard—means you’re doing something very right.

These relationships provide emotional support, reduce stress, and significantly boost your overall well-being.

4) You’re prioritizing self-care

In our pursuit of success, we often neglect the most important person in our lives: ourselves.

Self-care isn’t just about bubble baths and spa dates – although those are great too! It’s about taking time to nourish your body, mind, and soul.

Regular exercise, a balanced diet, mental health breaks, or even just a quiet evening with a good book – these are all forms of self-care.

As noted by experts like those at Choosing Therapy, there are so many benefits to this, including lower stress levels, improved productivity, and more happiness. 

When you make a conscious effort to look after your well-being, it’s not just good for your health. It also signals that you value yourself.

5) You’re living in the present

Many of us spend too much time dwelling on the past or worrying about the future, but real progress happens when we live in the moment.

As the Roman emperor and philosopher Marcus Aurelius wisely said, “Each of us lives only in the present, this brief moment; the rest is either a life that is past or is an uncertain future.”

Being able to focus on what’s happening right now—without getting lost in regrets or anxieties—shows tremendous personal growth.

It means you’re not only moving forward, but you’re also appreciating the journey as it unfolds.

Embracing the present allows for better mental clarity, less stress, and a more fulfilling life. 

6) You have an exercise routine

This one might seem strange, but it’s incredibly important. Having a regular exercise routine is a strong sign that you’re doing better in life than you think.

Physical exercise isn’t just about staying in shape—it’s about nurturing both your body and mind.

As noted by Healthline, the benefits of exercise include reducing stress, improving mood, boosting energy levels, and even enhancing brain function.

Plus, regular activity helps with better sleep and can protect against health issues as you age.

Maintaining an exercise routine, no matter how simple or short, shows that you’re prioritizing your well-being. It’s a clear indicator that you’re taking steps to care for yourself, which is something many people overlook.

Whether it’s hitting the gym, going for a daily walk, or doing yoga at home, that routine speaks volumes about where you’re at in life.

7) You’re embracing change

Change, whether big or small, can be unsettling. It pushes us into the unknown and makes us question our routines and comfort.

But if you’re someone who has learned to embrace change, see it as an opportunity for growth and new experiences, then you’re doing better than you might think.

Embracing change shows adaptability and resilience – two key traits that define success in life.

Final thoughts: Reflection is key

In a world that constantly pushes us to do more, achieve more, and be more, it’s easy to lose sight of our progress.

But sometimes, it’s the small signs—like setting goals, embracing change, or nurturing relationships—that reveal how far you’ve come.

Recognizing these accomplishments, no matter how minor they seem, is crucial in acknowledging that you’re on the right track.

So, take a moment to appreciate the journey. You’re doing better than you think, and these signs are proof of it.

Keep going, and give yourself the credit you deserve.