I remember a moment that seems almost trivial to me today – a small professional success that I overlooked entirely at the time. There was no pause, no pride and no „well done“. I was already moving on to the next task. It was only much later, after taking time off due to burnout and depression, that I realised: celebrating success is not a luxury. It is an act of self-care. And a key to mental health.

Why we often overlook successes – Objective & honest

In many companies, the culture is characterised by „further, faster, more“. Successes are taken for granted, praise is rare, and the next goal is already looming.

Reasons for this:

• Time pressure: who has time to celebrate?
• Modesty: „I don’t want to show off.“
• Culture: „No criticism is praise enough.“

However, this is precisely where the problem begins: if we never pause to reflect, we lose our sense of progress – and of ourselves.

„This reminds me of Tim Benzko’s song: Just need to save the world quickly! Listen
to it here: https://youtu.be/4BAKb2p450Q?si=nMu2GUlKjy7oHPpE“

All too often, I have put my needs on the back burner and worked my way through my to-do list. Today, things are different. I am consciously taking time for myself and my achievements!

The psychological power of celebration is a well-founded perspective

Celebrating success has a measurable impact on our mental health:

• Neurobiologically: The reward system is activated, dopamine is released – making us feel motivated and alive.
• Mentally: Consciously perceiving progress strengthens our sense of self-efficacy.
• Social: Celebrating together fosters connection, trust and team spirit.

Studies show that people who regularly reflect on and celebrate their successes are more resilient, satisfied and productive.

I found the following studies on this topic:

• The Harvard Study of Adult Development
  This long-term study (since 1938) shows that social relationships and a sense of belonging which are often strengthened by celebrating together – are crucial factors in achieving happiness and well-being. Successes and positivity were identified as central elements for mental health.
  Read the article on FOCUS Online
• The science of celebration – positive psychology
  Studies show that celebrating together reduces stress, increases self-esteem and promotes a sense of belonging – all of which are key factors for mental health.
  Article on happinessmeetslife.com

• Study on occupational resilience (Knispel et al., 2025)
  This study shows that occupational resilience which is achieved through self-care and recognition, among other things – correlates with lower levels of depression and higher job satisfaction.
  Study at ASU Occupational Medicine

What does „celebrating“ actually mean? – Practical & suitable for everyday use

Celebrating does not have to be pompous. It can be quiet, personal and authentic:

• Write in your diary, „I am proud of myself“.
• A quick thank you in a team meeting.
• A LinkedIn post acknowledging a milestone.
• Or a joint lunch after completing a project.

Celebrating means acknowledging what has been achieved. It means appreciating what has been achieved. It also give us strength for what is to come.

Of course, there can also be a big party where everyone celebrates together, dancing, laughing loudly and enjoying the moment. Sometimes that’s exactly what’s needed: a collective exhale, a genuine sense of togetherness and a visible „We did it!“

My personal impulse – storytelling & inspiration

After my six-month break, I learned to celebrate even the smallest steps.
A successful workshop. An honest conversation. A day when I took good care of myself.

I know now that these moments are more than just „nice to have“. They are necessary for staying healthy – mentally, emotionally and professionally.

My five impulses for you:

• Celebrate small steps – they form the basis for big changes.
• Share your successes to inspire others.
• Create rituals,  such as keeping a weekly success journal.
• Celebrate as a team – growing together means acknowledging each other’s achievements.
• Recognise yourself – you are more than your performance.