Life Lesson: Learn how to celebrate!
In March I completed a three month internship that turned into a paid contract. I feel like I lucked into it, but I know I worked hard to convert into paid work. However, when that offer was extended I was happy, but then immediately began to focus on the next chunk of work. My partner had to shake me into the realization that I had done it - I was able to be a nomad, to work for myself and travel at the same time. It took a while to sink in, and this lesson arrived while I was observing my own fears around celebrating this win.
I'm an ambitious person, always working to improve myself and reach my next goal. I don't necessarily always tie happiness to reaching my goal, but there is satisfaction in making it. However, that satisfaction is disappointingly fleeting! The minute I'm at one milestone, I'm starting the road to the next one. As a person who is constantly wanting to learn and grow, the end (and celebrating) never happens.
I don't slow down to celebrate the intermediate milestones because... what if something happens? What if that other pesky shoe drops? It's a fear of embarrassment, shame and failure.
I'm trying to learn to say, so what? Even if the next phase of the journey is a flop, I still worked hard and hit this milestone. It wasn't all luck and good timing, I manifested this. It is strangely hard to take credit and own the success, let alone celebrate it.
Part of this is internalized misogyny, women are socialized to be quiet and humble. Of course, no one likes a braggart either, but what is wrong with being proud of my hard work? Shouldn't I share that with the community that is supporting my journey?
Another lesson to integrate into my life, and hopefully encourage other women (and all people!) to do the same.
Do you have these fears? How do you remember to celebrate the small wins?
