When did you last celebrate an achievement? Chances are, it hasn’t been recent.

Every day we accomplish things, but they often go unnoticed. In today’s society, there’s immense pressure to constantly chase after the next big goal. As a result, smaller victories—and sometimes even major ones—slip by without recognition, leaving us feeling overwhelmed and disheartened.

So, seriously, when did you last give yourself credit for a small, or even significant, success? Whether it’s starting a new job during a hectic time, heading off to university, graduating, or even just getting out of bed on a tough morning, all achievements matter.

These smaller milestones deserve celebration too. Without acknowledging the stepping stones, we risk losing sight of how we reach our bigger dreams. For instance, I recently started a new job. While I celebrated the initial milestones—landing the interviews, getting the role, and completing my first week—I realised I hadn’t acknowledged the smaller victories. Each task I complete, every challenge I overcome, and all the lessons I learn contribute to my growth and success.

It’s important to remember that no one is instantly good at something. Whether it’s making the county team in your sport or earning a promotion, every accomplishment is built on sustained effort. So, next time you celebrate a major win, remember to applaud the small steps that got you there.

Allow yourself to bask in the moment when good things happen. Let go of the “what ifs” and negative thoughts, and let those heartfelt congratulations—“well done,” “I’m proud of you,” or “I knew you could do it”—sink in. These moments of pride and joy fuel our motivation for the journey ahead. Celebrate yourself—you’ve earned it.