February 20th, 2025

My mom was a party planner, and if there’s one thing she taught me, it’s that every win—big or small—is worth celebrating. Growing up, I watched her put the same level of thought and care into a client's birthday party as she did into a wedding. To her, every milestone deserved recognition, and she always found something to celebrate.

Whether it was bringing home an A on a paper, landing a big new client, or simply getting through a tough week, she made sure to pause and acknowledge the moment.

I’ve always understood the importance of that.

So a few years ago, when I received my first $10K check, I knew it wasn’t just about the money—it was about what it represented. At the time, getting $10K in one check felt huge. It was proof that the work, the late nights, and the risks I had taken were paying off. And instead of brushing past it and moving on to the next goal, I took a moment to soak it in.

At the time, I was living in Paris. That night, I took myself out, ordered a nice glass of champagne, and just sat in the feeling of accomplishment. It wasn’t about the amount. It was about acknowledging the journey and giving myself permission to celebrate.

Now, whenever I sign a new client—big or small—I take a moment to celebrate. A quiet toast, a deep breath, a small reward, a dinner with loved ones—just something to mark the occasion. Because every success, no matter the size, is proof that hard work pays off.

Celebration isn’t about throwing a party for every win. It’s about recognizing progress, honoring your effort, and creating space to appreciate how far you’ve come.

So, what can you celebrate today? A milestone? A lesson learned? The fact that you keep showing up?

Because success isn’t just about moving forward—it’s about making space to feel proud of how far you’ve already come.

Stay Inspired,

Sydney Addis