The Power of Celebration

Lately, I have been trying to reflect on why it appears that individuals are happier in the summertime. Is it possible that the increase in sunlight contributes to this? Is it th ability to engage in more outdoor activities? Is it possible that all of this might contribute to one’s overall sense of joy in the summer and if so, how do we carry that feeling into other aspects of our lives all year long?

While I don’t have an answer to lthis, I have also found that during the summer there seem to be more celebratory events. From holidays to family cookouts, there seems to be an expectation that summer should be enjoyed as much as possible-that it should be celebrated. So, perhaps part of the secret sauce to summer is the act of intentional celebration.

Intentional celebration is the practice of acknowledging accomplishments and blessings. While it can include meeting a goal, accomplishing something is not the only reason that we may celebrate something. One of my favorite things to do in the summer is to be a part of a BBQ. I know that one of the main reasons that I enjoy it so much is because I really enjoy grilled food, but that is something that I do year-round with my indoor grill. The laid back ambiance of BBQs, coupled with the gathering of loved ones tends to cultivate a sense of gratitude within me. I am grateful to be able to take time to just sit by the grill. I am grateful for the people that I have an opportunity to sit next to at that grill. Thus, I am celebrating all of that when I attend such events, and I find ways to intentionally do that so that seed of celebration has the capacity to grow.

So, how do we allow that seed to grow? While not everyday can be a BBQ, maybe everyday gives us something to celebrate. Celebration can look like congratulating one’s self or someone else. It can be treating yourself to your favorite meal or taking a celebratory run with your favorite celebratory jams. The important part is scheduling time to truly celebrate you and those things that are going well, even if it seems small.

My challenge to myself and to you is to find ways to celebrate yourself and those things in your life that you are grateful for-feel free to let us know what you end up doing! Congratulations to you!