Don’t wait to CELEBRATE!

Do you ever feel like time is moving at super-speed? Like you blinked and milestones have been reached and the next chapter is beginning? Did you think to yourself that you will celebrate next time? If you answered a resounding YES and wondered how I am “in your head”, then you may be stuck in the wash, rinse, repeat cycle of “I will celebrate when”…

For most of us, we set out with good intentions to celebrate our accomplishments. We meticulously count down the days until we will achieve our goal. We plan how we will feel and what we will do. Nevertheless, after some time and the dust settles we have quickly moved on to the next big thing. One part of this can be attributed to societal pressures to keep up with impossible standards. But, the other part is within ourselves because success is something we internalize and show in an outward expression. Unfortunately, in a world of “keep climbing the ladder”, enough can seem like it is truly never enough.

Don’t wait to celebrate!

Do I even have the time to stop and smell the roses? You may feel like you don’t have time but here are 5 reasons to stop and celebrate.

Celebration can …

1. Reduce feelings of anxiety.

Studies show that unrelenting busyness can cause difficulties in concentration, irritability, overthinking, and catastrophizing. Anxiety untreated can lead to physical and mental health issues. Not to mention that laughter can improve your immune system along with the four main happiness chemicals: serotonin, dopamine, endorphins, and oxytocin which control stress and boost pleasure.

2. Draw you into your life’s purpose.

We are all gifted in some way shape or form. To find what we are good at, we have to continue allowing our creative energy to flow. Creating a space of exploration begets reflection. What have you accomplished that brings you happiness?

3. Open up opportunities for others.

People like to win. However, we also like to inspire. Inspiration may be what you need to reach for your dreams. I was recently told that I inspired a long-lost friend to continue school. We worked at a major department store many years ago. She reached out specifically to thank me and stated ” If you could do it, I always felt that I could do it too”. We can’t take for granted that others are watching our story as it unfolds.

4. Sustain your motivation.

Let’s face it, we have all found ourselves in a slump unable to find the immediate strength to keep up the momentum. Motivating helps generate new ideas and reasons for evolving. Yet, by taking the time to relax, regroup and release, you can keep the motivation you have to embark on a new journey.

5. Finally, you deserve it!

Simple right? One of the hardest things to do can be telling yourself that you deserve all the happiness this world has to offer. Many feel braggadocious or awkward discussing their achievements. The truth is that others will not always roll out a red carpet for you. The level of honor you show yourself increases self-esteem and self-worth. Affirming yourself permits you to do what is necessary for your well-being and belief system. One thing we can’t control is time. Time will move whether we want it to or not. We can never repeat the same moment and oftentimes while looking so far ahead, we miss what is right in front of us. Celebrating helps us stay present in the moment and allows happiness to live in the tiniest of spaces. Don’t wait to celebrate!

Crystal Eve Outlaw, MSW, LCSWA, LCASA provides psychotherapy services in North Carolina. If you’d like to learn more about positive thinking and self esteem, contact 3C Wellness today!