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For some reason, I’ve dated my writings ever since I was taught to in grade school. A few years ago, I started including a timestamp as well.

When I read my older work, my typical reaction is as follows: a flinch at a typo, a slight head shake if I sound like a novice or a neophyte, and then appreciation at significant improvement.

Recognizing progress in one’s skill set can be a boost in confidence, but also a signal that we are capable of more today.

The methods below can capture your current state and help show progress of your skills:

• Save audio recordings (or memos on a phone recorder)
• Take before and after pictures
• Collect daily notes
• Add a date or time stamps for your art/work
• Compare saved drafts (all or select)
• Take screenshots
• Conduct quarter or year reviews
• Record vlogs (personal or private)

Remember the initial results recorded are not important because tomorrow you’ll be capable of more. A year from now, we’ll be surprised at our improved skills. In my case, I’ll be grateful for my unclouded writing.