When we think of celebrating an achievement, we tend to picture something out of the ordinary, like winning a race or a competition, getting top grades or securing a place on a new course or job. However, it is really important to celebrate all achievements, regardless of whether they come with a trophy or a certificate.
Celebrating wins is important because it reinforces positive behaviour and accomplishments. It helps individuals recognise their achievements and the positive feelings that come with them. It also boosts their self-confidence and self-esteem. Celebrating wins creates a sense of fulfilment and encourages individuals to continue striving towards their goals.
We’ve been working hard to recognise and celebrate all the different achievements we’ve seen from our students this term. From managing to not panic or freeze in an exam, to learning to cook a new meal from scratch, every win is a big win for us. And once exams are out of the way we will be really focused on celebrating just how hard all of our students have worked over these past few months. Studying for GCSEs and A Levels is not easy. Yet every student here at Breakthrough has stepped up and shown grit and determination to do their very best. We want to congratulate them and celebrate this because we know that this is what matters, not the grades. As part of this we will aim to draw attention to the feeling that comes with these achievements .
Focusing on the feeling that accompanies success is as important (if not more so) than celebrating the success itself. Once a task is completed well, it’s not just the external rewards and consequences that matter. It’s also the internal sense of satisfaction and pride. Knowing that they can and did do well is important. One reason why it is important is because it will help build further successes in the future. Individual trials and achievements come and go, but the great feeling they experienced when they studied hard and succeeded—that feeling will build their self-esteem and encourage them to repeat the process.
How will you be celebrating this summer?
