While it might be tempting to quickly hang up the new calendar and shut the door on 2020, there can be tremendous benefits to taking stock of your successes this year. In fact, acknowledging the year’s wins is even more important as it reinforces resiliency, gives a more optimistic perspective and lessens the load of the blow. While it may be hard to believe, you’ve had successes this year. We all have. However, we often don’t slow down long enough to give these victories more than a passing nod as we move on to the next important task.
When we do that, we are missing out on reaping tremendous rewards for ourselves, our families and our communities. By celebrating successes, we recognize the hard work that goes on every day and reinforce the “why” behind what we do. When we pause to help others bask in that glow of hard-earned victory, it shows that we also really appreciate their efforts.
In turn, our self-esteem is boosted and we gain new motivation to take the next big step forward. So how do we carve out time to add yet another “must-do” to our packed schedules? Many of the effective ways to celebrate our successes don’t actually take any additional preparation time. The following are a few of our favorites:
REGULAR RECOGNITION--Daily point out something positive to yourself, your family, friends, coworkers, neighbors, grocery clerk, delivery person.
Recognize the individuals involved. Be specific--explain what they did, how they did it, and why it is a big deal.
There’s nothing wrong with keeping it simple though. A quick, “Nice job handling that grumpy person just now” or “Thank you for delivering my package on a Saturday” can turn frustration into gratitude.
Including a non-language celebration (such as a “woop-woop,” a little dance shuffle, or a traditional hand clap or thumbs up) can be quick gestures that make it clear this is a big deal worth taking a moment to acknowledge.
Even the smallest tasks when acknowledged can make a big difference in how you and the recipient feel about your day.
DAILY POSITIVITY--Take time every day to celebrate the good things that happened that day.
Enjoy your celebration with a loved one or by yourself.
Couple it with something you enjoy: a meal, a drink or an activity.
Talk about the success, how it happened, why it is a good thing, all that it means to you.
These actions provide positive reinforcement to enjoy your life and to look forward to the next success.
GATHER GOOD NEWS--Create a system to capture positive feedback.
Write compliments in a journal
Post notes/cards on a bulletin board
Keep a box full of kudos by your bedside.
It doesn’t need to be a big affair. It needn’t be difficult. Just be consistent and see what a difference it makes. To get you started, join us in a few of the successes we’re celebrating at CompassPT. If you are in pain, have challenges moving the way you would like to or simply want to start a new activity or fitness plan, contact us for an assessment today.
Wishing you a peaceful and joyful
New Year’s Eve Celebration.
May 2021 be your best year ever.
Happy New Year from the CompassPT Crew!
Adapted from APTA’s Private Practice Section November 2020 Celebrating Success by Matt Slimming, PT, DPT