Celebrating Small Successes
Celebrating Small Successes: The Importance of Recognizing Supporting Steps While Working Toward Major Goals
When we think about progress, we often focus on the big picture. We set long-term goals and strive towards them, but it's easy to forget about the small steps that lead us there. If you’re having a hard time helping your child to work through a hurdle, celebrating small successes can be just as important as achieving the ultimate goal. Here's why:
Setting the stage for success. When trying to accomplish a new goal, sometimes the end point can seem overwhelming, but by focusing on the small steps which have already been accomplished, you can help your child to see the ultimate goal as “within reach” and boost self-esteem.
Helps to track progress and to increase motivation. While working toward a long-term goal, intermittent acknowlegment of the small steps helps to continue plotting a steady course toward the finish line. Each small accomplishment marks progress toward the end goal and frames these successes as “one step closer”. When you recognize the “little” achievements, you are also helping to increase or sustain motivation to continue working toward the final goal.
Builds stronger relationships around working through challenges. Some people are more prone to isolate themselves when dealing with adversity, however social support can be incredibly helpful during challenging times. You can help your child to build the skill of seeking social support by establishing positive interactions around a challenge and acknowledging the small successes.
Bookmarks success for the next tough task. Unfortunately, life does not have a “one tough challenge” quota. After facing one challenging situation/task, there is inevitably another challenge waiting ahead. However, each small triumph can become a reference point, particularly if small successess are acknowledged. This acknowledgment can help to decrease worry and fear around challenging situations and instead, foster a “Bring it on, I can do hard things.. I’ve done them before!” kind of approach.
At Newbridge Therapy Center, celebrating small successes in therapy is extremely important. Acknowledging achievements, no matter how small they may seem, helps to boost self-esteem, encourage motivation, build stronger relationships, and create positive associations.
