When was the last time you celebrated a milestone? Can you remember? Was it an anniversary, a new job, the completion of a big project?
It’s so important to pause after reaching a milestone and give yourself a moment to celebrate. You don’t want to just keep driving on to your next goal and only give that achievement a slight backward glance. You need to take a moment to acknowledge what you have achieved and savour it, just for a bit. Developing the habit of celebrating your wins will actually benefit you(and those around you) in a number of ways:
It reminds you that goal setting works. This is important, so you will continue to set goals and not just decide to float along and see what happens.
It imprints progress on your mind. When you celebrate, you’re choosing to create a significant event. Effectively you’re putting a marker on the track that you’re walking on and saying that this is a significant step. It helps your mind recognise that you have actually made progress. This is particularly important when you’re working on larger goals which can extend across months or years. You need to celebrate the milestones on the way to the final goal.
It motivates you. Success feels good and it is a huge motivating factor. Ever noticed after hitting a goal how motivated you felt, ready to tackle another? This is the dopamine hit, the feel-good chemical. After you achieve a goal and celebrate it, you get a dopamine hit. Then, inevitably, you want another. Celebrating success helps you maintain positivity, energy and motivation.
It’s a chance to share your success with others. If you work in a team this is totally imperative. You must celebrate with your team and recognise their efforts and achievements. If you don’t work in a team, it’s just as important to involve those you are closest to in your celebrations. Be it your significant other, your best friend or family, remember to include them in your celebrations. This is beneficial for all involved, as they get to become part of significant life events with you and understand your values. And you get to include them in on your positive vibes.