I was sitting in my therapist’s office the day after I graduated with my Masters from NYU. He asked how I felt about my big accomplishment. “I have been up most of the night researching PhD programs for the Fall,” was my reply. “Can you stop for a moment and celebrate?” Which was a good question because it had never entered my mind that it might be important to acknowledge and celebrate all of my hard work. This session was a turning point when I realized the importance of celebrating big and small accomplishments and creating rituals. Once I was able to slow down long enough to let it all sink in, I realized I did not want or need to get my PhD and that immediately planning the next thing was a way to avoid feeling the normal anxiety that change creates.

Do you celebrate yourself and your hard work? Do you take the time to enjoy reaching goals big and small? I find that many of my high achieving clients are future focused like I used to be. The problem with this defense mechanism of onto the next, is that it robs you of the joy of present moment consciousness. There will always be another goal to reach but without the sweet moment of being here now and celebrating, it can be an endless cycle of striving.

Oprah proposes that the more you celebrate your life, the more there is in life to celebrate and I agree!

Most cultures reserve celebrations for annual holidays and ‘big’ life events such as birthdays, weddings, births and retirement. The importance of acknowledging our everyday accomplishments is not really encouraged. Some cultures perceive self celebration as selfish or frivolous, yet all work and no play will not only make you dull but bitter too.

There is always a reason to celebrate, it’s called Life @Terri_Cole (Click to Tweet!)

Slowing down long enough to celebrate the small victories, creates momentum and inspiration to keep on keepin’ on. I encourage my clients and friends to celebrate every little thing. You made it to a 6:30 am spin class, awesome! You honored your body, took a bath and got to bed early, amazing! You finally completed that month long report, go grab a latte. Good job, go you!

Why reserve a beautiful dinner, dress or vacation for “special” occasions only? If you live as if every day is a special occasion, it will be. Acts of celebration will also help you cultivate more present moment consciousness not to mention they are an excuse to have fun!

In addition to celebration, I make a consistent effort to incorporate rituals such as meditation, energy work and a morning green juice into my daily life. These simple acts keep me grounded and connected. Rituals are just another way to celebrate life while creating good habits.

Now, let’s you and I celebrate! In the comments below share three ways you will celebrate yourself and others this week!! Also if you have any rituals or ways you already celebrate, share them with us! I challenge you to take this idea to heart and start the practice of celebration right way. It is a fun, easy and joyous way to make life just a little brighter. Have a fantastic week and as always, take care of you!

Love Love Love
Terri

Terri Cole is a licensed psychotherapist, transformation coach, and an expert at turning fear into freedom. Sign up for Terri’s weekly Tune Up Tips and follow her on Twitter.

Image courtesy of amy_buthod.