Is celebrating really important? I think it is!

Last week while sitting in a cozy corner of a coffee shop, nursing my usual Decaf Latte with almond milk (Don’t judge me), I overheard and elderly gentleman chatting with what I presume was a friend. He was discussing AFL football, a popular topic where I live. “These football teams, celebrating at the end of the season like they’ve just won a grand final. Dressing up and having their Mad Monday celebrations - it’s ludicrous.

In my day, we only celebrated if we won, if we had achieved something significant. These days, they celebrate everything!”

This got my hackles up because I believe celebration is important, both during and at the end of an expedition that has required work and effort. It of course needs to be genuine and appropriate, not everyone needs to get a medal for participating, but recognising small wins, efforts, and progress should be acknowledged.

Valuing the energy expended, the determination, the tactics applied, and the perseverance is just as important—if not more important—than the outcome itself.

In fact, various studies and research about Celebration have proven that it can:

• Increase happiness,
• Enhance self-esteem
• Reduce stress
• Improve motivation
• Encourage a positive mindset

Celebration is also helpful when it comes to ongoing growth and forming new habits because it contributes to reinforcing positive behaviours and releasing dopamine, the brain's "feel-good" chemical.

And if you were to think about the importance of Celebration in the workplace you will find it contributes greatly to morale, teamwork, strengthening relationships and last but not least creating an environment that is enjoyable to work in!

Many studies performed at reputable organisations like Harvard, Gallup and the Journal of Applied Behavioural have shown us this. Here is a snapshot of a few of them:

• Employee Engagement and Satisfaction: Research by Gallup found that employees who feel recognised and appreciated are more engaged and satisfied with their jobs. Their study showed that organisations with high levels of employee recognition have 31% lower voluntary turnover rates.
• Teamwork and Collaboration: A study published in the Journal of Applied Behavioural Science found that celebrating achievements together can enhance team cohesion and collaboration. Teams that engage in regular celebrations report higher levels of trust and cooperation among team members.
• Morale and Productivity: According to a study by the University of Warwick, happiness can boost productivity by up to 12%. Celebrations and positive reinforcement contribute to a happier work environment, which in turn can lead to increased productivity.
• Strengthening Relationships: Research by the American Psychological Association highlights that positive social interactions, such as celebrations, can strengthen relationships and improve communication among colleagues. This can lead to a more supportive and collaborative work environment.
• Work Environment: A report by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) indicates that a positive work environment, which includes regular celebrations and recognition, can improve overall job satisfaction and reduce workplace stress.

So, this week, I am wondering:

1. What small things could you applaud your team members, family members or friends for?
2. What efforts or small wins could you praise yourself for this week?
3. And last but not least, how might making the effort to celebrate better connect your team?

Remember celebrating the journey will always inspire resilience, motivation, and continued effort—qualities that are essential for both you and those you have the privilege to work and create with.

Kylie

Kylie Paatsch Leadership Coach, Consultant, and Facilitator, passionate about unlocking the potential in leaders, teams, and organisations. Through personalised one-on-one coaching and interactive workshops—both in person and online—I offer simple, practical, and personally tested tools and techniques to help you lead with confidence and build a strong team culture