Why You Should Celebrate Parenting Wins, Big or Small

There isn’t a one-size-fits-all way to parent.

No matter how many books you read, classes you take, audiobooks you listen to, or people you speak with, they will all have different approaches, styles, and methods for parenting.

There isn’t a specific technique that works for every parent across the board. When it comes to parenting, you have to find what works best for you. This means trying things out, succeeding, failing, learning, and growing.

Parenting is one of the hardest jobs out there. This is why you should celebrate parenting wins, no matter how big!

Sets a Good Example

If you’re showing your children that accomplishments—yours and theirs included—are something to be celebrated every step of the way, it can set a good tone for how they look at life. This perspective allows your children to see that you’re proud and appreciative of them. It will also make them more willing to appreciate the little things in life. Their self-esteem can also receive a boost by learning to be proud of themselves for both big and small wins.

Prevents Burnout

Burnout is real. If you’re constantly chugging away trying to hit a goal or a deadline with no end in sight, it can be demoralizing. This is why setting smaller goals and celebrating those small wins before you reach the large overall goal or win can be extremely beneficial. Not only does this method help keep you focused and on track, but you’ll be less likely to experience burnout from feeling like all of your hard work is going unnoticed.

Increases Confidence

Celebrating those small wins in life can help increase your confidence levels. If you’re only celebrating those large wins, you may feel uncertain or unsure of your own capabilities until you reach that large goal. By celebrating those smaller wins, you’ll instill the confidence in yourself to know that you can do this and are more than capable of reaching those larger goals and winning bigger. Celebrate those smaller wins so that you can recognize all of your strengths and what you’re capable of achieving.

Helps Keep You Motivated

Setting SMART goals means that your goals are smart, measurable, attainable, realistic, and timely. These types of goals are often recommended, even outside of parenting, so that a person doesn’t run into the situation of setting goals that they’ll never be able to reach. SMART goals, in addition to celebrating those small wins, can help to keep you motivated, focused, and on track for the larger picture. Not only will you be able to find motivation for yourself, but you can track your child’s progress by hitting these smaller goals as well.

Promotes Personal Growth

Think of parenting like you’re playing The Game of LIFE. If you’re only celebrating at the end of the game when you reach the finish line and win, you won’t actually be having any fun along the way. This means that you’ll spend the majority of the time not feeling happy or fulfilled.

Celebrating those smaller wins can help you actually enjoy the progress. Remember, it’s about progress, not perfection. There’s no such thing as perfection, especially in regards to parenting. Celebrating those smaller wins can help you continue putting in the work, learning along the way, and personally growing and developing, alongside your child.

Next Steps

Parenting is a miracle and a blessing. But it can also be filled with learning lessons and challenges that you must overcome. If you need a little additional support during this time, we’re here for you. Reach out today to see how family therapy can help you change your perspective and give yourself more grace when it comes to your role as a parent.