When it comes to communication—especially in a professional or sensitive setting—how you say something can matter just as much as what you say. The phrase “moving forward” often appears in work emails, team discussions, or delicate conversations.
It’s a useful phrase, but when used too often, it can feel impersonal or even cold. If you’re looking for warmer, more thoughtful ways to say “moving forward”, this list offers alternatives that carry care, clarity, and a more human touch.
Whether you’re leading a team through change, writing a reflective message, or offering guidance to a client, the right phrase can make your message resonate in a deeper way.
What Does “Moving Forward” Mean?
Meaning: “Moving forward” typically signals a transition. It refers to what happens next—after a decision, a conversation, or an event. It’s a phrase used to shift the focus to the future.
Detailed Explanation: It can imply progress, change, recovery, or simply the next step. While it’s functional and widely understood, it can sometimes feel abrupt or emotionally detached—especially in situations that require empathy or care.
Scenario Example:
- “Moving forward, we’ll adopt a weekly check-in to ensure alignment.”
Best Use: In business settings where clear next steps are needed.
Not Use: When addressing emotional topics (e.g., layoffs, grief, or mistakes), where a softer tone is more appropriate.
Additional Tip: The goal is not just to signal change but to show that you’re mindful of how the change is communicated.
1. From Here On
Meaning: Starting now, from this point forward.
Detailed Explanation: This phrase feels inclusive and acknowledges the present moment as a meaningful pivot point.
Scenario Example:
- “From here on, let’s prioritize collaboration over competition.”
Best Use: In motivational or team-oriented contexts.
Not Use: When you want a formal tone—it’s a bit casual.
Additional Tip: Pair with shared goals for added warmth.
Read More: 33 Other Ways to Say ‘Positive Impact’ (With Examples)
2. Going Ahead
Meaning: What will happen as time progresses.
Detailed Explanation: It’s neutral, but still forward-thinking. Slightly more natural in conversation than “moving forward.”
Scenario Example:
- “Going ahead, we’ll focus on user feedback more closely.”
Best Use: In professional conversations, especially when suggesting change.
Not Use: In very formal writing—it can seem vague.
Additional Tip: Follow it up with specifics to avoid ambiguity.
3. As We Continue
Meaning: Acknowledges momentum while gently guiding toward what’s next.
Detailed Explanation: Feels seamless and smooth—like you’re building on progress.
Scenario Example:
- “As we continue, we’ll refine our communication strategy.”
Best Use: When you want to encourage consistency or evolution.
Not Use: When initiating a completely new direction.
Additional Tip: Use when there’s a thread of continuity you want to highlight.
4. Looking Ahead
Meaning: Anticipating the future with planning and foresight.
Detailed Explanation: This one has an optimistic undertone—it encourages vision.
Scenario Example:
- “Looking ahead, we’ll be expanding our reach internationally.”
Best Use: Strategic planning or updates.
Not Use: In highly emotional contexts—it can sound a bit corporate.
Additional Tip: Use it to frame ambition or long-term goals.
5. Taking the Next Step
Meaning: Suggests a specific action or decision following reflection.
Detailed Explanation: Feels more intentional and grounded than just “moving forward.”
Scenario Example:
- “Taking the next step, we’ll begin onboarding the new team.”
Best Use: When outlining concrete progress.
Not Use: When you’re unsure what the next step is.
Additional Tip: It’s great for action plans and transitions.
6. Stepping Into the Future
Meaning: Entering the next phase with awareness and purpose.
Detailed Explanation: A little more poetic and inspirational.
Scenario Example:
- “Stepping into the future, we’re embracing new ways of thinking.”
Best Use: In speeches, vision statements, or change announcements.
Not Use: In procedural emails—it may feel too lofty.
Additional Tip: Ideal when addressing change with hope.
7. Onward
Meaning: Moving ahead with determination.
Detailed Explanation: It’s short, bold, and brimming with confidence.
Scenario Example:
- “Onward—we’ve got this!”
Best Use: Motivational communication.
Not Use: In delicate or emotional scenarios.
Additional Tip: Use when morale-boosting is the goal.
8. As We Move On
Meaning: Progressing from the current state or situation.
Detailed Explanation: Acknowledges a change while maintaining continuity.
Scenario Example:
- “As we move on, let’s carry forward what we’ve learned.”
Best Use: In reflections, especially after a challenge.
Not Use: When you need to sound authoritative—it’s softer.
Additional Tip: Emphasize learning and resilience.
9. To Build From Here
Meaning: Constructing something new based on where you are now.
Detailed Explanation: Feels creative, constructive, and respectful of the past.
Scenario Example:
- “To build from here, we’ll strengthen our internal support systems.”
Best Use: When progress involves growth.
Not Use: In cases of failure—it may sound overly optimistic.
Additional Tip: Use when discussing evolution or iteration.
10. Going Forward Together
Meaning: Emphasizes unity and collective progress.
Detailed Explanation: Feels warm, inclusive, and hopeful.
Scenario Example:
- “Going forward together, let’s remain transparent and kind.”
Best Use: In team settings or community messages.
Not Use: In solo decision-making.
Additional Tip: Add collaborative values for impact.
11. As We Progress
Meaning: Acknowledges development over time.
Detailed Explanation: Smooth and hopeful, this phrase emphasizes growth and ongoing improvement.
Scenario Example:
- “As we progress, we’ll keep aligning our goals with your needs.”
Best Use: Project updates or strategic planning.
Not Use: If progress is unclear or stalled.
Additional Tip: Reassures others that advancement is being made mindfully.
12. Continuing On
Meaning: Carrying forward from the current point.
Detailed Explanation: Neutral and steady, this phrase indicates momentum.
Scenario Example:
- “Continuing on, we’ll address the remaining issues in phase two.”
Best Use: When things are already in motion.
Not Use: When a new direction is needed.
Additional Tip: Use it when consistency is a priority.
13. In the Days Ahead
Meaning: Points to the near future with a gentle, anticipatory tone.
Detailed Explanation: Subtle and reflective, this phrase suggests a calm approach to what’s next.
Scenario Example:
- “In the days ahead, we’ll provide regular updates on our progress.”
Best Use: In empathetic communications or change management.
Not Use: When urgent action is required.
Additional Tip: Good for balancing optimism with sensitivity.
14. What Comes Next
Meaning: Acknowledges future steps without pressure.
Detailed Explanation: Invites curiosity and openness about upcoming actions.
Scenario Example:
- “What comes next will be shaped by our shared insights.”
Best Use: Brainstorming sessions or change discussions.
Not Use: When a clear plan must be conveyed.
Additional Tip: Use it to inspire participation in future planning.
15. Our Next Chapter
Meaning: A poetic way to describe a new beginning.
Detailed Explanation: It feels like a story unfolding, adding emotional weight.
Scenario Example:
- “Our next chapter focuses on deeper collaboration.”
Best Use: In transitions or team realignments.
Not Use: In highly technical documents.
Additional Tip: Use when you want to evoke a sense of narrative.
16. The Road Ahead
Meaning: Refers to upcoming plans or challenges with vision.
Detailed Explanation: Adds a sense of direction while recognizing complexity.
Scenario Example:
- “The road ahead may be challenging, but we’re in this together.”
Best Use: During transitions or long-term planning.
Not Use: In short-term task updates.
Additional Tip: Use when transparency and empathy are key.
17. Let’s Proceed With
Meaning: Introduces the next phase or action plan.
Detailed Explanation: Clear and action-driven, but still polite.
Scenario Example:
- “Let’s proceed with integrating customer feedback into phase two.”
Best Use: Project management and collaboration.
Not Use: In casual conversations—it’s slightly formal.
Additional Tip: Pairs well with specifics to drive clarity.
18. Taking It From Here
Meaning: Acknowledges the current moment as a launch point.
Detailed Explanation: Warm, casual, and grounded in the present.
Scenario Example:
- “Taking it from here, we’ll be shifting focus to retention.”
Best Use: In collaborative or supportive settings.
Not Use: When extreme formality is needed.
Additional Tip: Use when offering reassurance about the next steps.
19. Advancing Toward
Meaning: Expresses strategic movement in a specific direction.
Detailed Explanation: Professional and purpose-driven, with an air of confidence.
Scenario Example:
- “Advancing toward our 2025 goals, we’re refining internal systems.”
Best Use: Strategic plans and high-level updates.
Not Use: In emotionally sensitive scenarios.
Additional Tip: Great for progress reviews or visionary messaging.
20. Turning the Page
Meaning: Signifies moving beyond a phase or challenge.
Detailed Explanation: Feels poetic and final, often used to suggest growth after hardship.
Scenario Example:
- “We’re turning the page and embracing new possibilities.”
Best Use: In transitions, endings, or fresh starts.
Not Use: For ongoing or unchanged operations.
Additional Tip: Use when closure is part of the message.
21. Charting a New Course
Meaning: Suggests a thoughtful change in direction.
Detailed Explanation: Invokes navigation, intention, and planning.
Scenario Example:
- “We’re charting a new course to better serve our community.”
Best Use: Leadership communications or pivots.
Not Use: For minor updates.
Additional Tip: Use to inspire and energize others.
22. Let’s Move Into
Meaning: Guides toward a specific area or stage.
Detailed Explanation: Inviting and inclusive, this phrase eases transitions.
Scenario Example:
- “Let’s move into solution mode and work through the options.”
Best Use: Problem-solving and planning.
Not Use: If you want to remain neutral or passive.
Additional Tip: Use when inviting collaboration or change.
23. With the Future in Mind
Meaning: A forward-looking phrase that emphasizes foresight.
Detailed Explanation: Acknowledges present action while valuing long-term vision.
Scenario Example:
- “With the future in mind, we’re investing in better systems.”
Best Use: Visionary or planning conversations.
Not Use: In immediate, short-term updates.
Additional Tip: Use to frame thoughtful, sustainable choices.
24. Let’s Look Ahead
Meaning: An optimistic shift toward future thinking.
Detailed Explanation: Friendly and anticipatory, without being forceful.
Scenario Example:
- “Let’s look ahead and prepare for the next rollout.”
Best Use: In team settings or brainstorming.
Not Use: In situations requiring a firm directive.
Additional Tip: Use to soften transition language.
25. From This Point Forward
Meaning: Marks a clean shift starting now.
Detailed Explanation: Clear and definitive, it draws a line in time.
Scenario Example:
- “From this point forward, meetings will start promptly at 9 AM.”
Best Use: When setting new expectations.
Not Use: When flexibility or softness is needed.
Additional Tip: Use sparingly—it can come across as stern.
26. Keeping Momentum Going
Meaning: Encourages continued effort and energy.
Detailed Explanation: Focuses on not losing progress or drive.
Scenario Example:
- “Let’s keep the momentum going with phase three.”
Best Use: During progress updates or pep talks.
Not Use: At the start of a project.
Additional Tip: Use to rally energy and confidence.
27. What Lies Ahead
Meaning: Encourages anticipation of future events.
Detailed Explanation: A reflective and open phrase that implies curiosity and readiness.
Scenario Example:
- “We’re excited about what lies ahead in Q3.”
Best Use: Forward-looking newsletters or updates.
Not Use: In situations demanding concrete direction.
Additional Tip: Great for pairing with innovation or ambition.
28. With That in Mind
Meaning: Links past or present insights to future actions.
Detailed Explanation: Shows thoughtful connection between experiences and decisions.
Scenario Example:
- “With that in mind, we’ll revise our training model.”
Best Use: In discussions requiring reflection.
Not Use: As a standalone transition—it needs context.
Additional Tip: Use for nuanced or thoughtful pivots.
29. Taking It Forward
Meaning: Carrying current efforts into the future.
Detailed Explanation: Suggests continuity and intention.
Scenario Example:
- “We’re taking it forward with new leadership and renewed focus.”
Best Use: Project wrap-ups or leadership messages.
Not Use: For highly emotional settings.
Additional Tip: Pairs well with action plans or summaries.
30. Stepping Into What’s Next
Meaning: Embracing the next phase with intention.
Detailed Explanation: Soft yet powerful—ideal for transitions.
Scenario Example:
- “We’re stepping into what’s next with clarity and care.”
Best Use: Reflective leadership or milestone moments.
Not Use: For rigid, structured updates.
Additional Tip: Use to show both vision and grace.
31. Building On What We’ve Learned
Meaning: Progress with awareness and reflection.
Detailed Explanation: This phrase acknowledges growth and celebrates learning.
Scenario Example:
- “Building on what we’ve learned, we’re refining our strategy.”
Best Use: Post-project reviews or change implementations.
Not Use: When immediate action is needed.
Additional Tip: Use to signal maturity and thoughtful change.
32. Taking Things to the Next Level
Meaning: Advancing with energy and purpose.
Detailed Explanation: A motivating phrase often used in ambitious environments.
Scenario Example:
- “We’re ready to take things to the next level in Q2.”
Best Use: In growth or scaling situations.
Not Use: In serious or emotional messages.
Additional Tip: Perfect for product launches or team motivation.
33. Embracing What Comes Next
Meaning: Welcoming change with grace and confidence.
Detailed Explanation: This phrase is warm, hopeful, and empathetic.
Scenario Example:
- “We’re embracing what comes next with openness and heart.”
Best Use: In personal messages or transitional announcements.
Not Use: For high-stakes business negotiations.
Additional Tip: Use to balance vulnerability and vision.
Additional Tip to Say “Moving Forward”
One powerful approach is to pause before you communicate and ask: “What tone do I want to convey—authority, empathy, optimism, or calm?” Then choose the phrase that matches that emotional intention.
Sometimes, replacing one phrase is all it takes to turn a message from cold to compassionate. Read your words aloud. If they feel distant, reach for one of the more human-centered alternatives above.
FAQ: 5 Common Questions About Saying “Moving Forward” Differently
1. Why should I avoid using “moving forward” too often in professional communication?
Answer: While “moving forward” is clear and direct, it can sometimes feel cold or corporate, especially when used after a disagreement or in emotionally sensitive contexts. Overuse also makes your message feel generic or impersonal. By choosing more thoughtful alternatives, you show intention, empathy, and respect for your audience’s emotional context.
2. Which alternative is best for difficult conversations, like giving feedback or addressing change?
Answer: “In the days ahead” or “With the future in mind” are gentle, caring ways to ease into sensitive transitions. These phrases convey hope and direction without being forceful, making them perfect when empathy and reassurance matter most.
3. Can I use these alternatives in emails or only in meetings and presentations?
Answer: Absolutely! These alternatives are versatile and effective across all forms of communication—from emails to memos, proposals to presentations. In writing, especially, they help avoid sounding robotic or overly formal, bringing warmth and clarity to your tone.
4. What’s a great alternative to “moving forward” when working with clients or customers?
Answer: Try “As we progress” or “With that in mind”. Both strike a nice balance of professionalism and care. They’re clear without being pushy and help clients feel like they’re part of a thoughtful, collaborative process.
5. How do I choose the right alternative without overthinking it?
Answer: Think about the emotional tone you want to convey.
- Want to sound calm? Try “What comes next”.
- Want to sound strategic? Use “Advancing toward”.
- Want to be inclusive? Go with “Let’s move into”.
Conclusion
In my years writing and coaching professionals on communication, I’ve seen firsthand how the right language builds trust, connection, and clarity. While “moving forward” is serviceable, these 33 alternatives offer nuance, empathy, and authenticity—qualities that are deeply needed in professional conversations today.
Whether you’re leading a team, navigating change, or simply writing an email, don’t be afraid to pause and choose a phrase that feels more “you”. That moment of thoughtfulness can transform not just your message—but the relationship it carries.
