We actually have to chant with this attitude, this intention, “I want to become free from these offences!” And we should judge, as the time is passing, we should see "how much progress am I making in chanting?" And if we think, “Actually, I am not making any progress,” then as Bhaktivinoda Ṭhākura says, one has to seek out the association of devotees who are making progress in chanting. Without that association it is very difficult to come to that platform of nāma ābhāsa, from nāma aparādha.
MKV, Vol 8- Pg 18, Our Progress in Life is Gauged by Our Chanting- May 01, 2001-Moscow