Celebrate Achievements

If you go from "to-do" to "to-do," without any pause for applause, you could end up feeling overworked, underappreciated, and even incompetent. We all need to know our efforts are actually paying off; otherwise, what's the point?

• What have you accomplished lately that you failed to acknowledge? Did you resolve a conflict, finish a project, close a deal, or other wise achieve something you set out to do?
• Stop now and celebrate. Treat yourself to a special beverage, take your break in a different place, or call a good friend to share the news
• Find a mirror, look at your reflection, and say, "Hey, great job. I'm proud of you!"
• When others congratulate you today on a job well done, take a moment to let their words sink in. It's easy to brush off compliments and minimize our own efforts. Instead, be open to sincere expressions of respect and appreciation. Let the words affirm the impact that you have made.

A little self-pat on the back will go a long way toward reinforcing the fact that your efforts have been worthwhile. Bask in the glory of success — for at least a few minutes every day.

Read the next Quick-Lift

More on Creating Meaning

Excerpted from Recharge in Minutes ©2003 Suzanne Zoglio, PhD www.zoglio.com Buy the book

More on: Stress Management for Moms