CELEBRATION
There are exactly as many special occasions in life as we choose to celebrate.
- Robert Breault
Have you been following the Olympics?
The Closing Ceremony of the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris is happening as I am writing this. For some, this will be a relief; for others, it time to rest, and for others, space to celebrate.
My non-sporty husband was totally captivated by what happened in the past 16 days and we watched a lot of sports. I was emotionally touched by the engagement and reactions of athletes and spectators alike. Be it winning or losing, these games have touched me. I cheered when a small country got a medal or when the underdog was faster, higher, or more composed. Breaks from tradition also touched me. For example, the Women's Marathon was the final act of the Olympics in honour of the French women who marched that very route in protest of the high prices of bread in the French Revolution of 1789.
The commentators just said: "Watching everyone here celebrate is just joyful".
The topic of celebration has been with me for the past two weeks for another reason. I am testing the Beta version of the Mental Fitness program Positive Intelligence. This programme, derived from business coaching, is now morphing into a mental resilience tool kit for everyone. One big difference is the focus on celebrating small steps and avoiding the trap of being pushed through life with guilt or shame.
We saw many expressions of celebration in Paris. Usually arms stretched up high, the biggest smiles and embraces.
Because our brain cannot distinguish the difference between actions performed with reason or without, the body produces endorphins and dopamine with every act of celebration. That might be a reason why we like watching our favourite team win - we can celebrate with them, and it makes us feel good.
New Zealand, a relatively small country in terms of population, achieved 20 medals, 10 of them gold. That brought us to No. 11 on the medal table—just behind Germany and in front of Canada. Fans may also feel united in acknowledging our athletes' commitment, hard work, and achievement.
The most important thing in the Olympic Games is not to win but to take part.
We can choose to celebrate.
Celebrating can be a simple acknowledgement: "I did it", or maybe a smile and a nod to yourself, or reaching your arms up high or do a little dance on the spot. Your body will recognise it and produce your happy hormones. That alone will motivate you for more.
When there is a big project ahead of you and you find you are procrastinating - maybe celebrate the smallest step you have done toward it. Or celebrate catching that thought that keeps sabotaging you.
You are worth it.
Thank you, people of ancient Greece for your inspiration.
My invitation to you today:
Move into a posture or gesture of celebration - for the small achievements of our day. Maybe be courageous - and celebrate with gusto - like an Olympian.
This is your time.
With my arms reached up high.
Mel
