Celebrate

Do you know something I don’t hear enough? Something none of us hear enough?

Today, I succeeded. Today, I did good.

Sure, it would be nice to hear a “well done” from someone else, but the opinion that matters most is yours.

We are always so quick to remember every little thing we shouldn’t have done, things we should have said but didn’t. We lie awake and relive the cringeworthy moments, and the downright awful ones. But how often do you look back at your day and give yourself a pat on the back?

Achievements don’t have to be “big” to matter. If you did anything today that was difficult for you, tell yourself you did a good job. No one else will. If you don’t acknowledge yourself, how can anyone else?

Today, I got out of bed. Today, I made breakfast. Today, I got through a full day without sinking.

It took me a long time to start putting this into action, and I’ve been lucky to have a safe space and someone that understands. If you can’t say it out loud, write it down. Keep a diary and note down what you’re proud of, no matter how small.

For me, I took a big step this week. This week, I stood up for someone in a new and scary situation. In a meeting, with people I didn’t know very well, I stood up for what I thought was right and spoke out against injustice. I managed to stay professional even though I was shaking with anger throughout the call. I may be quite vocal on paper (or in pixels?) but I have never once challenged someone out loud. Best of all, I was able to say that I am proud of myself.

Some days, my biggest achievement is getting out of bed in the morning for myself. To me, that’s still a big achievement. I know how hard that can be. Once upon a time, the only reason I could force myself to face the day was because my little girl needed me to. Now, if I get out of bed eager to face the day, or even just willing to, for myself instead of anyone else…well that’s a big deal. That’s a pat on the back and a note on how far I’ve come.

Someone taught me to celebrate my achievements, no matter how small they seem.

Someone taught me to say thank you, instead of sorry.

Someone taught me that even if I falter or take a step back, it doesn’t erase all the steps forward.

I’ve found that the tiniest shift in perspective can go such a long way. It can make such a difference. Every time I post something, it is scary and new. When I write posts like this, I’m usually close to tears by the end. This is difficult for me. But I feel like if one person reads this and finds something helpful, then it’s worth it.

I want my tiny corner of the internet to be a safe place.

If you are proud of anything, or if you have anything you want to celebrate, please feel free to drop a comment below.

As always, likes are also greatly appreciated if you have enjoyed this post, or found anything useful in these words. It helps me know what to keep writing, so please share your opinion however you feel comfortable.