Celebrating Small Wins on the Journey to Healing

From the pages of Restoring the Broken Pieces

“Do not despise these small beginnings, for the Lord rejoices to see the work

begin.” {Zechariah 4:10}

While cleaning this morning, sorting through items that had not yet been put away, like pictures, cards, and little mementos with special meaning, I found myself gently walking through time.

Each object seemed to stir something different. Some brought warmth, others grief. I reflected on why one memory surfaced more strongly than another, and how the losses I’ve endured, the people, the seasons, the pieces of

myself I’ve had to let go, have made me hold even more tightly to the gifts, the

memories, and the words I cherish now.

And in that quiet space, I realized something: This moment of reflection is a small win.

Sometimes, healing feels slow. Sometimes, progress feels like standing still. But

moments like this, when we pause to reflect, to cherish, to make space for our

stories are signs that we are moving forward.

Why Small Wins Matter

We often think healing means making massive changes or having significant

breakthroughs. But the truth is, most of our growth happens in the in-between. Small

wins are the quiet moments when we show up for ourselves. They’re evidence of

resilience, courage, and grace at work in us.

Small wins build momentum. They help us see that our efforts matter. And they remind

us that healing isn’t a race, it’s a journey.

What Counts as a Small Win?

~Choosing to rest instead of over-function

~Speaking up for yourself, even if your voice shakes

~Sitting with an emotion instead of stuffing it down

~Reflecting on a memory with compassion, not shame

~Smiling at a photo because you remember the love, not just the loss

These may seem small, but they are sacred.

How to Celebrate the Wins Along the Way

Start a Victory Journal

Write down one thing each week that reflects your healing, even if it’s just “I made it

through.”

Whisper a prayer of thanks.

Thank God for walking with you, especially in the unseen progress.

Share your joy

Tell a friend, your journal, or our community. Small victories become stronger when we

name them out loud.

God Rejoices in the Small Too

He sees your tears, your efforts, and your quiet victories. Every step you take toward

healing, no matter how hidden, is worth celebrating. Your journey matters, and so

does today.

Let’s Reflect Together

What small win are you celebrating today? Please drop a comment below or write it in your journal. Let’s permit ourselves to rejoice in the little things shaping us into stronger, whole, and more restored versions of ourselves.

With you in every step,

Melissa

Author of Restoring the Broken Pieces

HopingToHeal.com

Turning wounds into wisdom one step at a time.