[be] steps behind

to fall behind someone in terms of progress or achievement

Despite his efforts, he always seems to be steps behind his colleagues in mastering new technologies.
The novice hiker found himself steps behind the experienced mountaineers during the challenging ascent.
In the competitive market, the outdated product left the company steps behind its more innovative competitors.
The student struggled to catch up and felt steps behind in the advanced math class.
As the industry evolved, companies relying on outdated practices found themselves steps behind in efficiency and profitability.