The concept of growth is deeply ingrained in both personal and professional development discourses, often framed as an imperative to improve, strive, and achieve. Growth is often equated with the pursuit of “more”—increased effort, greater productivity, more contributions. These ideals are amplified as we begin a new year, a time when people may feel pressure (or even inspired) to outdo their past achievements.

However, this unrelenting focus on growth through accumulation can obscure the complexity of progress itself. Teresa Amabile's and Steve Kramer's research in The Progress Principle (2011) shows that progress—no matter how incremental—is a significant driver of motivation and satisfaction. Reflecting on their work, alongside my own experience, has brought up some critical questions: What does it mean to truly progress? How can we ensure that growth is not driven by an internalized expectation of "more," but rather aligned with meaningful self-actualization? This reflection has led me to an alternative concept: coasting.

Amabile’s studies demonstrate that small wins and everyday progress, rather than sweeping achievements, are the key to sustained motivation and creativity. However, the prevailing cultural narrative often overlooks these smaller, subtler forms of progress in favor of visible markers of........

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