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Every Little Thing by April Jeppson

Yesterday, during a monthly conference call with executives from across the state, we kicked things off the way we always do, by sharing something good. It’s a tradition I appreciate. I mean, how often do we actually start meetings with good news? (Imagine how much better Monday mornings would be if we all did.)

When it was my turn, I shared a recent positive experience from work. As I wrapped up, I said, “We really needed a win.” Almost immediately, another participant chimed in, “We say that a lot, too.”

And it’s true. Life can be hard. Not just “I forgot my lunch at home” hard, but “am I sure I can keep doing this?” hard. Like a roller coaster, you know in your heart that the downward plunge will eventually lead to an upward climb, but when you’re in the thick of the plummet, it’s easy to forget that the climb even exists. All you can see is track hurtling straight down and your knuckles gripping the bar so tight you might leave dents.

When life hands you blow after blow, whether it’s unexpected projects, personal struggles or just the never-ending to-do list, it can feel like there’s no end in sight. That’s why those little wins, no matter how small they seem, matter so much. They’re like the first rays of sun after a string of cloudy days. You soak them up. You let them warm your face. You remember that not every season lasts forever.

Wins don’t have to be monumental either. Sure, sometimes the win is a major project completed, a big grant awarded or a new opportunity falling into place. But sometimes, the win is simply making it through the day without losing your cool. It’s someone saying thank you at exactly the right moment. It’s a quick email that says, “I really enjoy working with you.” It’s a co-worker lingering after a meeting just to tell you they appreciate your efforts.

Both of those things happened to me recently. It took approximately one minute out of the givers’ day, but it boosted my spirits for the entire day. Think of the power we all possess to brighten someone’s mood. If each of us took a few minutes every day to genuinely see the people around us and offer a real compliment? Wow. The ripple effect would be incredible.

“I am not afraid of storms, for I am learning how to sail my ship.” — Louisa May Alcott

Sometimes the storm feels endless. Sometimes it feels like you’ll never get your sea legs under you. But then, just when you think you’re about to sink, you catch a breeze.

You find a win. And for a little while, the waves calm and the sun peeks through the clouds.

So if you’re feeling a little storm-tossed lately, hold on. Keep your eyes open for the wins, even the small ones. They matter more than you know.

And while you’re at it, don’t forget: You have the power to be someone else’s win too.

Albert Lean April Jeppson is a wife, mom, coach and encourager of dreams. Her column appears every Saturday.