Celebrating small wins: the power of progress in counselling
When facing life’s challenges, it’s easy to focus on the big picture—the ultimate goal of feeling better, overcoming a struggle, or finding peace. However, what often gets overlooked is the journey itself and the many small wins along the way. In counselling, celebrating these small victories is not just encouraging; it’s essential.
Why small wins matter
Small actions, when compounded over time, lead to meaningful results. Think of a snowball rolling down a hill—what starts as a tiny, seemingly insignificant ball of snow eventually becomes something powerful. The same principle applies in counselling and personal growth.
When you’re dealing with depression, finding motivation can feel nearly impossible. But even small actions—like going for a short walk, making a cup of tea, or calling a friend—can make a difference. These little moments might not seem like much on their own, but they show that you’re trying, taking steps to feel better, and that’s a big deal.
Taking it one step at a time
When you’re going through a tough time, the end goal can feel overwhelming. Focusing on where you want to be—happy, confident, or at peace—might seem impossibly far away. That’s why it’s crucial to focus on the next best step. Instead of worrying about the whole journey, take it one step, one day, one hour, or even one minute at a time.
Breaking goals into smaller, easier steps makes things feel less overwhelming and helps you build momentum. Simple actions—like showing up for a counselling session, writing in a journal, or taking a moment to breathe—are worth celebrating. These little efforts add up and lay the groundwork for big, lasting changes over time.
Measuring progress in counselling
At Calgary Counselling Centre and Counselling Alberta, we’re committed to helping clients recognize and celebrate their progress. Through our use of Feedback-Informed Treatment (FIT), clients and their counsellors work together to track changes in levels of distress from session to session. This process provides valuable insights into what’s working and what might need adjustment.
The ability to see tangible progress—whether it’s a slight decrease in anxiety, improved relationships, or better sleep—can be incredibly motivating. It’s a reminder that even when progress feels slow, change is happening. And when adjustments are necessary, the FIT approach ensures that counselling remains tailored to your needs and effective.
How to Celebrate Small Wins
Recognizing progress doesn’t have to be elaborate. Here are a few simple ways to celebrate:
Reflect: Take a moment to acknowledge what you’ve accomplished, no matter how small it may seem. Write it down in a journal or share it with someone you trust.
Reward yourself: Treat yourself to something that brings you joy—a favorite snack, a relaxing bath, or an episode of a comforting TV show.
Share your wins: Sharing your progress with your counsellor, a friend, or a family member can amplify the sense of accomplishment.
Practice gratitude: Reflect on the things that are going well and the steps you’ve taken to make them happen.
The Bigger Picture
Progress is not linear. Some days will feel like leaps forward, while others might feel like setbacks. This is natural. What matters is continuing to take small, intentional steps forward, even when it’s hard. Over time, these small wins build resilience, confidence, and hope.
At Calgary Counselling Centre and Counselling Alberta, we understand that every journey is unique. Our approach is designed to support you through every step of the process, helping you recognize your progress and adapt as needed. By celebrating small wins, we’re not just marking milestones—we’re recognizing your effort and progress.
The journey toward mental wellness is not about perfection; it’s about progress. Each small win is a testament to your strength and determination. Whether it’s getting out of bed on a tough day, reaching out for help, or simply showing up for yourself, every step counts. Celebrate these moments. They are the building blocks of a brighter future.
Information for this blog was provided by registered psychologist, Lisa McIsaac, and registered social worker, Carmen Sadoway. Learn more about our counsellors.
Listen to Living Fully, Season 3, Episode 2: Setting Meaningful Counselling Goals.