The Science of Celebration

Celebrating the Small Wins: Why It Matters

Today is a special day for me—it’s the launch of my new website! As I reflect on this milestone, it feels only fitting that my first blog post be about the power of celebration.

With the demands of daily life, it’s easy to overlook the small victories, let alone take a moment to appreciate them. Trust me, I understand—there’s always something on the to-do list, another task demanding your attention. But here’s the thing: living in that constant “what’s next” mindset robs us of something essential.

Celebrating, even in the smallest of ways, benefits us in profound and lasting ways. Here’s why it’s worth making time for those moments of joy and recognition.

The Science Behind Celebration

The research on the benefits of celebration are overwhelming. While I specialize in working with teenagers, these insights hold true for all ages. Our brains are wired to reward success. When we accomplish a task, our brain releases dopamine—the “feel-good” neurotransmitter. Taking the time to celebrate reinforces this reward, encouraging us to seek out similar successes in the future. Even recognizing small victories can build a stronger connection between effort and achievement.

For example, a study by Danielle J. Brick, professor at the University of Connecticut, found that celebration increases health and well-being while fostering a sense of social support. This “social support” refers to the belief that others will be there for us during future challenges.

When we celebrate our teens’ successes—whether big or small—we boost their self-confidence and encourage the habits that bring about those accomplishments. What’s more, celebrating their wins doesn’t just support their well-being in the moment—it also builds resilience for future challenges. Affirming them during their successes communicates that we’ll continue to stand by them during times of failure.

How Parents Can Put Celebration into Action

In a culture dominated by unattainable standards, teens often feel like they’ll never measure up. As parents, it’s crucial that we change this narrative. We need to show our teens they’re worthy of attention and celebration simply because of who they are.

One of the most powerful ways to do this is through family rituals. These don’t have to be extravagant! Even small, consistent moments can make a big difference. Here are a few simple ideas:

• A quick coffee break after school to chat about their day.
• Volunteering together for a cause they care about.
• A handwritten card with a heartfelt message, like “I’m so proud of you!”
• A family drive to the ocean (or another favorite spot).
• Planning a bigger celebration together for larger accomplishments.

The key isn’t the size of the celebration; it’s the message behind it. By recognizing your teen’s inherent worth, you’re providing something they may not receive anywhere else. As parents, we want to be the ones offering this support—reinforcing not only their value but also the family’s unique priorities and values.

When we make celebration a regular practice, we remind ourselves—and those we love—that life’s victories, no matter how small, are worth savoring. And as I celebrate this exciting milestone of launching my website, I’m reminded of how much there is to be grateful for every step of the way.

What small victory will you celebrate today?