Small Wins: Recognize Your Glimmers for a Stronger New Year
Author: Shayna Rosenak, Graduate Therapist
As we approach the New Year, many of us begin to craft resolutions, envisioning grand transformations and ambitious goals. But what if the secret to sustainable growth lies not in these sweeping changes but in the small, often overlooked moments of progress.
In his book Atomic Habits, James Clear introduces the idea that the aggregation of marginal gains can lead to profound transformation over time. Essentially, the small steps we take daily, the micro-adjustments we make, shape who we become far more than isolated bursts of effort. This philosophy aligns with the importance of recognizing and celebrating "glimmers" – those fleeting moments of positivity, progress, or hope that light the path to personal growth.
Why Small Wins Matter
Small wins create momentum. Every time you acknowledge a minor victory, you reinforce the belief that growth is possible. This shift in mindset cultivates resilience and motivation, both of which are critical for long-term success.
Psychologists emphasize the role of positive reinforcement in habit formation. When we celebrate progress, even if it’s as simple as choosing a nourishing meal, showing up for a workout, or completing a task on our to-do list, we train our brains to seek more of these constructive actions. Over time, this builds a sense of self-efficacy – the belief that we are capable of achieving what we set out to do.
The Concept of Glimmers
Coined by Deb Dana, a clinical social worker specializing in polyvagal theory, "glimmers" represent those small cues of safety and connection that regulate our nervous system and foster a sense of well-being. Unlike triggers, which often induce stress, glimmers bring moments of calm, joy, and hope. Recognizing these moments can serve as a gentle yet powerful way to reconnect with ourselves, especially during times of uncertainty.
In the context of New Year’s resolutions, identifying and embracing glimmers can shift our focus from solely pursuing outcomes to appreciating the process. This helps to break free from the all-or-nothing mentality that often leads to burnout.
Practical Ways to Celebrate Small Wins
1. Track Micro-Progress
Keep a journal to jot down small achievements at the end of each day. Or, take a moment to pause and mindfully recognize progress as it happens. Acknowledge a small achievement before winding down for the night – it could be as simple as getting out of bed on a tough day or staying hydrated.
2. Bounce Back with Grace
If you experience a setback or miss a goal, take accountability for what you would like to have seen change and move forward. No spirals, no drama. Just consistent, real progress. Growth isn’t linear – the big picture is shaped by how we respond to these moments. Each small decision adds up, reinforcing long-term habits.
3. Create Visual Cues
Use a habit tracker or calendar and mark off days when you complete a task or achieve a minor goal. This visual representation of progress reinforces consistency.
4. Verbal Affirmations
Speak your wins out loud. Acknowledge them to yourself, or share them with a friend, partner, or therapist.
5. Celebrate Immediately
Don’t wait to celebrate only big milestones. Reward yourself with simple pleasures when you notice progress – a walk in nature, listening to a favorite song, or making your favorite drink.
6. Practice Self-Compassion
Berating yourself doesn’t foster growth – it keeps you stuck. Perfection is an illusion that often paralyzes progress. Embrace where you are, and don’t compare your journey to others. Use others as inspiration, not as a measuring stick. If someone prioritizes consistent movement, let it inspire your own routine without shame. Ask, “What can I learn from them that serves me?” rather than “Why don’t I look like that?”
7. Own Your Identity
Act as if you are already the person you strive to become. Identify as someone who follows through – “I am the kind of person who prioritizes self-care, growth, and resilience.” If you stumble, avoid cognitive distortions like “I’ll never change.” Instead, remind yourself that setbacks are part of the process. Accept where you are without judgment – you don’t need to have everything figured out right now. Progress is progress.
8. Recognize the Power of the Present
You don’t have to wait for next week, next year, or the perfect moment. Each day, hour, or minute is an opportunity to reset. Slowly but surely, you build resilience and learn to ditch all-or-nothing thinking.
Embracing Small Wins in the New Year
As you step into the New Year, remember that significant change doesn’t happen overnight. True transformation is born from the quiet consistency of small actions, compounded over time.
Celebrate the glimmers – the small wins, the fleeting moments of joy, and the subtle shifts that move you forward. Each one is a building block, laying the foundation for the larger, more fulfilling life you are creating. You got this.
If you’d like more support with identifying your glimmers, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. We’re here for you - Schedule a free call with a member of our team today!
