Celebrating small successes- Why it’s so important

It’s a pretty common thought that you can only celebrate when you have reached the goal that was set. Have you had this thought before? “I will celebrate when I have lost all 25 of the pounds I want to lose.” This can be a dangerous way of thinking and it doesn't set you up for success because you aren't acknowledging the work you have already done.

How do you combat this? Easy, celebrate every little change, and every small success, along the way. There are a few ways to do this.

Celebrate through Acknowledgment

Oftentimes, busy lives can make it difficult to notice little things. Maybe you aren't seeing results yet. The jeans you wish to fit into are still too snug, or maybe you’re just not where you want to be yet. What are the ways you can acknowledge little things? Can you notice how many days you’ve gone on a walk in a row? Do you notice that this new lifestyle change is not foreign anymore? Or maybe you notice small health changes, like not having to catch your breath as much.

What do you notice? Celebrate the small things- even if you don't see big results just yet.

Keeping Shame Away

Another way you can celebrate small things is by making the choice to not shame yourself. One way to know shame is present when there is a belief that something is wrong with you. I believe the opposite of shame is acceptance. Is your journey taking longer than you wished it would? Are you feeling bad that you cannot move the needle faster? 

When shame creeps in it’s important to be able to notice what feelings are rising up. What ideas are coming up? Then ask yourself if those are fair thoughts. Of course, it would be neat to be able to work out 5 times, lose 25 pounds and not have to work out again. It’s not realistic, though. So, is it fair to yourself to be disappointed when your journey doesn't turn out that way? No, it’s not!

Celebrate by allowing cheat days

Changing a lifestyle can be really hard. Staying committed despite not seeing results can be really hard too. Sometimes the thought of never having something again can be really sad. It’s okay if you don't want to give up your favorite coffee drink or sleeping in- instead of working out. Creating a plan that allows you to occasionally have what is so hard to give up can actually increase your chances of sticking with it. 

Simply choose one or two things that bring you joy and allow yourself to still have access to them- without shaming yourself.

I am curious to know, are there other ways you choose to celebrate yourself and the journey you are on. How can you honor your hard work and dedication?