How has tracking protein intake+making sure you’re getting enough protein helped your gains

I always assumed I was getting enough protein until I started tracking my calories and realized I was falling short most days. So for those who went through periods of not getting enough protein to then making sure you’re getting enough daily. Have you felt a tangible difference during those periods? I know the answer is yes for most, so I should clarify and say a noticeable difference. Energy, strength, and mood have all improved for me considerably and not sure if that is all attributable to the protein intake or not.