"I celebrate every step forward, no matter how small, because they all lead to healing.” - Rebecca Ann

Introduction:

When we think of milestones in life, we usually picture big, flashy moments - birthdays, anniversaries, or major achievements. But as a widow, the milestones that matter often look very different. These aren't the things people usually celebrate, but they are huge wins for us. Today, I want to talk about widow milestones: celebrating the little wins that show you're moving forward, even when it feels like progress is slow.

Episode 13: Widow Milestones - Celebrating the Little Wins

What Are Widow Milestones?

Widow milestones aren't grand events - they're the small, everyday victories that help you reclaim your life after loss. 

• Paying a bill on time for the first time without feeling overwhelmed.

• Making it through the grocery store without breaking down. 

• Cooking a meal just for yourself and actually enjoying it.

• Saying "yes" to a social invite - even if it's just coffee with a friend. 

The little wins might seem insignificant to others, but they're major markers of progress in widowhood.

Why Celebrating the Little Wins Matters

Grief has a way of making you feel stuck, like you're not moving forward. That's why widow milestones: celebrating the little wins is so important. 

By celebrating these moments, you're:

• Building confidence in your ability to handle life's challenges.

• Shifting focus from what's still hard to what you've accomplished.

• Reminding yourself that healing happens in tiny, consistent steps.

My Own Widow Milestones

I remember one of my first major widow milestones: getting through an entire week without a meltdown. It wasn't easy, and there were plenty of moments when I felt like giving up. But when I looked back I realized I'd made it through, it felt like I'd climbed Mount Everest. 

Then there was the first time I tackled a household chore my husband used to do - mowing! Was it perfect? Nope. But I got it done, and that little win made me feel capable again.

How to Celebrate Your Widow Milestones

Celebrating the little wins doesn't mean throwing a party every time you check something off your list (though, hey, if that's your style, go for it!). It's about pausing, acknowledging your progress, and giving yourself credit where it's due. 

Here are a few simple ways to honor your widow milestones:

• Write them down in a journal. Seeing your progress on paper can be so empowering. 

• Treat yourself to something small - a coffee date, a relaxing bath, or a new book. 

• Share your win with someone who understands, like a close friend or support group. 

This Weeks Actionable Step

Keep track of your widow milestones, big or small, and take time to honor each victory along the way.

Keep Moving Forward

The road through widowhood isn't easy, but every little step forward matters. By focusing on widow milestones: celebrating the little wins, you'll start to notice just how far you've come.

So, the next time you make it through the day without tears, try something new, or just get out of bed when you didn't think you could - pause and celebrate. These moments are proof that you're healing, even when it feels like you're not. 

Remember: Widow milestones aren't little - they're a big deal. And you deserve to celebrate every single one of them.

Which widow milestones have you celebrated lately? Let me know in the comments- I'd love to cheer you on!

Resources I Know You'll Love

Resource #1 | Redesign Your Life Membership Program - a transformative, supportive community designed specifically for women navigating life after loss. This is a private podcast, a space for growth, healing and transformation. You receive exclusive audio workshops and special episodes where we dive deeper into the 10 pillars of widowhood, including emotional wellbeing, financial stability, rediscovering identity, and more. Each workshop (6-7 episodes) is paced with actionable tools, compassionate guidance, and strategies to help you release what no longer serves you and redesign your life with hope and purpose.

Resource #2 | Widow Warrior Wear - Widow wear designed just for widows in this season of life. Our shop celebrates the strength and humor of widows with sassy slogans and empowering designs. Laugh, love, and wear your warrior spirit proudly as you journey through grief and re-design your life!

Resource #3 |Widow Wellness Kit- My Widow Wellness Kit is filled with handpicked products I've personally tried and tested as a widow navigating grief and healing. Each item has been chosen to help release stress, promote relaxation, and create moments of calm, offering practical tools I've found invaluable on my own journey - and now I'm sharing them with you.