In a recent LinkedIn post, Alec Rickard explores the often-overlooked practice of acknowledging personal and professional progress, particularly for leaders. Rickard challenges the common tendency to constantly shift ambitions, causing individuals to lose sight of how far they have already advanced. He emphasizes that significant achievements, even those made under pressure, are often dismissed in the relentless pursuit of future goals.
Rickard highlights the importance of self-recognition, stating:
“Give yourself full credit. It steadies you for the next chapter.”
The post then transitions into actionable advice for leaders, offering a structured approach to tracking progress and fostering growth. Rickard outlines four key practices designed to help leaders maintain perspective and make informed decisions.
The Power of Documenting Wins
Rickard stresses the value of regularly logging achievements, even seemingly small ones. He suggests a weekly ritual:
“Every Friday, write three wins and one miss. After three months you will have 12 logs of real evidence. Use them in reviews, pitches, and conversations that decide your next move.”
According to Rickard, this consistent documentation provides tangible proof of progress, which can be invaluable during performance reviews, when pitching new ideas, or when making critical career decisions. He argues that this practice counters the tendency to focus solely on what’s next, preventing leaders from appreciating their current standing.
Structured Reflection for Strategic Growth
A core component of Rickard’s advice involves dedicated time for reflection. He advocates for scheduling quarterly reviews, emphasizing the need for uninterrupted focus.
The Importance of Quarterly Reviews
Rickard recommends blocking out ninety minutes each quarter for a distraction-free review. During this session, leaders should compare their planned objectives against their actual outcomes and document three key decisions made. “One honest review beats twelve months of guessing where you stand,” Rickard asserts. This structured approach, he believes, provides clarity and direction, preventing leaders from drifting without a clear understanding of their trajectory.
Setting and Monitoring 90-Day Priorities
Further enhancing strategic focus, Rickard suggests setting clear 90-day priorities. He advises leaders to identify three critical outcomes that will have the most significant impact. “Review them every Monday before your week takes over,” he recommends. Rickard’s system encourages aiming for consistent progress, with a target of being on track for 10 out of 12 weeks, and emphasizes the need for swift adjustments when deviations occur.
Visibility and Trust Through Progress Sharing
Finally, Rickard underscores the importance of sharing progress openly. He suggests monthly updates to teams or mentors, supported by clear proof points. “The people who promote you need to see your results, not assume them,” Rickard points out. He argues that regular, transparent communication about achievements and challenges builds trust more effectively than working in isolation. This visibility, in his view, is crucial for gaining support and advancing one’s career.
In conclusion, Alec Rickard’s LinkedIn post serves as a powerful reminder for leaders to pause, acknowledge their journey, and implement structured practices for tracking progress. By honoring their achievements and maintaining clear priorities, leaders can foster steadier growth and make more effective decisions for their future endeavors.
📝 About This Content
This article is based on insights shared by Alec Rickard on LinkedIn.
📅 Originally posted on March 23, 2026 | View original post on LinkedIn →