Celebrating Your Small Wins

It’s in our nature to keep looking forward. What am I going to do tomorrow? What is the next goal I want to achieve? We look at the big picture and the big goals we set for ourselves – and that’s what we tend to celebrate. Crossing the finish line is always exciting (don’t I know it!), but what about all of the small wins it took to get there? I think that celebrating your small wins is even more important than the big ones, and I’m not the only one. 

From Someone Who’s Seen it All

Last week, I got to attend a webinar that got me thinking about celebrating your small wins.  The speaker was born to a single mom, and was one of seven children who had different fathers. They lived in the toughest part of Los Angeles, and their mother shot her boyfriend, ran from the law, and ended up in jail. She raised her younger brothers on her own, and got her GED twelve years after she should have graduated. It was a tough life.  

Fast forward to her presentation, and this woman is now a very successful entrepreneur who lives in an amazing resort-like mansion, flies in private jets, and is making millions. During her talk, she said that celebrating the little wins throughout life is one of the keys to her happiness. She noticed that many of her most successful friends don’t seem happy; they are always chasing the next big goal, and not enjoying life along the way. They don’t stop to celebrate! 

Build Momentum with Small Wins

So celebrating your small wins will make you happier, but that’s not all it does! As you take the time to acknowledge the little achievements on your way to a bigger goal, you’ll build momentum and be more motivated to keep going. 

Read: Find Momentum to Start Running Again

I don’t know if you saw it on Instagram, but it’s been awhile since I practiced advanced Pilates exercises on the reformer, and I decided to give it a go. Guess what happened? I fell. On camera, of course! I’m fine, though my ego took a bit of a hit. I could have been frustrated and walked away, but I got right back on and tried again. 

The story we tell ourselves about this type of experience is so important! In this instance, I could have focused on my failure, and been annoyed with myself for letting my practice “slide” a bit. Negative self-talk is no one’s friend. So instead, I chose to celebrate that I got back up again, and tried something different. This celebratory mindset helps me feel stronger, determined, and proud of myself. The situation was the same, but my mindset is what got me back up again. 

My Small Wins this Year

I know that it can be difficult to see the wins some days, especially after the very stressful year that we collectively experienced. It’s easier to complain about the restrictions and isolation, and we’re definitely justified. But… What if we spent some time looking for the good, too? 

I feel like so many good things have happened in the past year! 

• I love my current work schedule and the virtual bootcamps that I’ve run. 
• I’ve made worldwide connections with other Pilates teachers, coaches, and health practitioners that I doubt would have happened without Covid happening.
• 360 Pilates published my blog post. 
• I ran a fundraiser for the Battered Women’s Society.
• The SWM Wellness talks started as a part of the Sweat with Melissa subscription.
• I’m working with a local trainer to create a 10km fundraiser run later this year.
• My teacher training program has started. 
• Our family had time to spend together, and get creative in ways to celebrate special occasions.
• Everyone in our family made big decisions about their futures and goals.  
• I’m excited for what’s to come!

I’m Celebrating Your Small Wins

I’m in your life because I coach and train you in Pilates or strength training, but I’m here to celebrate your accomplishments, too! I know how intimidating it can be to start something new (or get back up after you fall), but those steps are a big deal – so pat yourself on the back. 

Here’s something else that I know: Fitness teachers, trainers, Pilates and yoga instructors all want to help you feel better. They want you to feel healthier, happier, stronger, and more confident in yourself and what your body can do. And they all will celebrate when you finally master a move, up your weights, or try something for the first time. We are your cheering section! 

So – what can you celebrate this week when it comes to fitness? Booking your weekly sessions could be the first win. Remembering the name of five exercises, or learning the order of them is a win. Right now, I’m focusing on eating protein after a workout. It used to be a habit, but for some reason I just stopped. Then during the SWM nutrition talk with Kelsey, she reminded us how important it is. So I’m aiming for that, and am looking forward to the energy shift that comes with it. Even when we fall out of a habit, we can still celebrate when we start again. And when you’re ready, I’m here for you!