Recently, many of my Python scripts run through the Python window (in ArcMap v10.8.1) will not progress past the first step unless the Python window is clicked. When run (using the 'execfile' command or when loading the program), only the first step is performed. The notification for that step appears, but is much slower to appear/disappear than normal. The program will then not progress to the next step until the ArcMap window is clicked (the location of this click does not seem to matter). Background processing is enabled.
The problem is not script-related (as it has occurred when using two different Python scripts) nor computer related (as it has occurred on two different systems). Oddly, this issue comes and goes. The same program can be run twice in succession, and the program will progress normally on the second run. Sometimes resetting ArcMap will fix the issue, and sometimes it won't.
Obviously this is a major detriment to my automation efforts, so any help on this matter would be appreciated.
