The principle of eternal progression cannot be precisely defined or comprehended, yet it is fundamental to the LDS worldview. It embodies many concepts taught by Joseph Smith , especially in his King Follett discourse.
Progression takes many forms.
In one sense, eternal progression refers to everything that people learn and experience by their choices as they progress from premortal life , to mortality, to postmortal spirit life, and to a resurrected state in the presence of God. Personal progression is possible in each of these states, but not the same kind of progression. Progression apparently occurred in the premortal life, for most spirits there chose to follow Christ and some were noble and great, while others chose to follow Lucifer. Entering mortality affords opportunities for further progression. Life is never static.