Why the Little Wins Matter: Celebrating Small Steps in Mental Health Recovery

I’m currently taking advantage of the beautiful weekend, but I don’t want to miss sharing this weekend’s blog post with you. So, I’ll keep it short and sweet. Today, I want to focus on the small wins in recovery—and just how vital they are to long-term success. 

I want to share my top 3 little wins I try to achieve every day: 

1. GETTING OUT OF BED: It's understandable to seek refuge in the comfort of your bed, especially during depressive episodes. The allure of sleeping through it, of escaping into isolation, can feel like a solution – a way to avoid being a burden. However, surrendering to this impulse can inadvertently lead you down a path toward deeper darkness and disconnection. Remember, taking small steps to engage with the world, even on the toughest days, can make a significant difference in your mental health journey. Each day you rise, whether it's to simply rest on the couch or refresh with a shower, you've already achieved a victory.

1. DRINKING SOME WATER: The simplest task, such as drinking a glass of water, can be a genuine victory. This is such a small act of self-care, but it is vital to hydrate your body and mind. It's a tangible reminder that you are capable of taking care of yourself, offering a small boost of positivity, and showing your body kindness. This small act helps pave the way for potentially tackling bigger challenges throughout the day. It's a win, however small, in the ongoing battle for well-being. So remember to drink some water and be kind to your body, mind, and soul.

1. DOING ONE SMALL MOOD-BOOSTING ACTIVITY: What brings a smile to your face is unique to you. For me, it can be the simple joy of petting my dogs, losing myself in a podcast, savoring a favorite snack, or even brainstorming new ideas for my blog. By choosing to engage in even the smallest positive activity, you're taking a step forward, marking another victory in your day. Crafting a list of small, mood-boosting activities to sprinkle throughout your day is a powerful act of self-care. Each small act you complete, each little moment of joy you create, is a victory in itself – a daily win that adds up to a significant improvement in your overall well-being. 

Hold onto the little victories, no matter how insignificant they may seem, and trust that these small steps, taken consistently, will lead you toward a more resilient mindset. So, go out there and conquer your day, one small win at a time!