On a typical progressive lens, only about 1/2 of the total lens area is
useable. For the intermediate and reading areas, only about 1/4 of the total
lens area is usable. In at least some situations, you will need to learn to
move your head. This is part of the adaptation process and everyone has to
go through it.

What you gain is the ability to have distance vision, reading vision, and a
variable (but small) area of the lens that can be used to focus at any
distance in between. That is why the lens is called a progressive, because
it has more than just distance and reading powers, but the lens powers in
the intermediate (or transition) area progresses from the distance to the
reading power.

If you don't need an intermediate area, and can live with a distance area
and a reading area only, then you should consider traditional bi-focals.
With bi-focals, almost the entire lens area is useable, although only in one
of two powers (distance or reading). Distance works well from about 15 feet
to infinity, and reading area is typically optimized at about 15 inches or
so (you OD can vary this to your needs). Of course, bi-focals also have a
visible line across the middle of the lens, which is a cosmetic problem for
some people.

The above notwithstanding, there are many different progressive lens
designs, some of which work better than others. Unfortunately, the better
ones are expensive to very expensive.

In order to determine whether you might benefit from a different lens
design, it might help to post your exact Rx and the lenses you have. Please
specify manufacturer, model, and material. For example you might have a
Varilux Panamic in polycarb material (or 1.60 material , or 1.67 or
material). Ask your OD office for the specifics if you don't know. Also list
you exact frame size (should be on the frame or ask your OD office). Usually
the larger the frame, the better vision you have with progressives.

Another thing to consider is that the fitting may not have been done
correctly, and your frame or lenses need adjustment. Fitting of a
progressive lens is somewhat tricky, and often times mistakes are made,
which is one reason they offer free remakes with these type lenses (which is
built into the price you pay). Try moving the frame around on face to see if
it makes things any better, and discuss this with the person who fit your
glasses.