The Importance of Self-Celebration
Always be rooting for yourself
When was the last time you celebrated yourself?
Last week, I celebrated the launch of my book, Owning Our Struggles, and it felt so good to be surrounded by community. I was dealing with a lot of stress leading up to the event and wanted to cancel numerous times. I was so close to letting the difficulties and disappointments of life disrupt my peace, but I chose to push through because I knew there would be a reward on the other end of making the right decision. My launch event reminded me of how important it is to celebrate our accomplishments, no matter how big or small they may seem. Too often, we downplay our successes or feel we don't deserve to celebrate them. But celebrating ourselves and our achievements is important to self-care and self-love.
Fear of criticism: Some people may be afraid of receiving negative feedback or criticism from others if they celebrate themselves, so they avoid doing it altogether.
Lack of confidence: Some people may have low self-esteem or lack confidence in their accomplishments, so they don't feel like celebrating themselves is warranted.
Prioritizing other people's feelings over your own: When you prioritize the feelings of others over your own, it can be a sign that you struggle with self-acceptance. By prioritizing your feelings, you can create a sense of self-respect and self-worth, which can help you build healthier relationships and improve your overall well-being.
Not being celebrated in childhood: Children who are not celebrated or validated for their accomplishments and unique qualities may struggle with self-acceptance later in life. They may feel like they are not good enough or that their efforts are not appreciated, which can lead to feelings of shame and self-doubt.
Owning Our Struggles, is a book that explores the intersections of mental health, race, and culture. It's a testament to the power of community and collective healing. The launch event was a celebration of the book, but it was also a celebration of the community that made it possible. It reminded us that we can't do this work alone and that we need each other to heal and grow.
I hope the launch event left attendees feeling inspired, empowered, and committed to their own healing, knowing they are not alone. As for me, I am grateful and humbled that Owning Our Struggles has come to fruition and for the supportive community that has encouraged me throughout this journey. I appreciate the opportunity to share my story and contribute to the conversation about mental health and healing.
So, to anyone reading this, I want to remind you to celebrate yourself. Celebrate your accomplishments, no matter how big or small they may seem. Celebrate the community that supports you and the people who believe in you. And most importantly, celebrate your journey because it is through our struggles that we find our strength.
Join me later tonight at 6pm EST as I will be in conversation with Tiffany Dufu, Founder and CEO of The Cru, to talk about my new book, Owning Our Struggles. The event is free. Register below!
Something to read: You’re Allowed to Cut Ties With A Toxic Parent
Congrats on launching!! I can't wait to listen to the audio book!
It's so important to celebrate our small wins along the way to towards bigger goals. The idea of celebrating small wins of a loved one is easier to digest than the idea of celebrating our own wins. I often wonder, "Why do we choose to live with such a disconnect with ourselves?"
Life is so much better when you are your own biggest cheerleader🤍