Small victories

Life keeps throwing challenges at us. Some are small irritations, some are serious setbacks and, occasionally, we are confronted with situations that test us to our very core. The quality of our lives depends largely on how we respond to these challenges. Our maturity and mental resilience determine our responses. Consequently, people react differently to similar situations. Some may succumb to the pressure; some may rise and fight valiantly; others may ignore the challenge and move on. In fact, no universal formula exists for the right response. Often, only after the matter is resolved do we realise what the right response would have been.

We will not always emerge victorious. Life will bring failures and disappointments, and successes may be few and far between. Learn to enjoy these successes. They rejuvenate us and, more importantly, help build a cushion of confidence and resilience to withstand future falls.

Dismissing a small victory deprives us of one of life's many reasons to smile. Small victories deserve celebration because they make ordinary days more joyful and fulfilling. Life is enriched by countless small victories.


Gita reminds us that bliss lies in maintaining equanimity in success and failure. Perhaps the art of living well is simply this: accept life's disappointments with maturity and grace, and celebrate even its smallest victories with gratitude.