The Power of Stacking Your Wins
Okay maybe a picture of the GOAT holding his championship trophy isn't the best example of a micro-win... but I'd put money on it Michael Jordan was the KING of stacking micro-wins, which ultiamtely led him to being the greatest of all time.
1. so What is a micro-win?
A micro-win is one of those little actions that don’t take much but pack a serious punch. It’s that mini-victory that sets the tone, builds momentum, and gives you a taste of progress—even if your day’s crazy.
Think of it like this: when you wake up and take five deep breaths, or do a quick stretch, or even just make your bed, you’re already setting up a win. You don’t have to climb a mountain before breakfast; you just need to do something that reminds you you’re in control and moving forward.
Microwins are like stacking little blocks of success. Maybe you tackle that one email you’ve been putting off or drink a full glass of water before grabbing your coffee. On their own, they might seem small, but the magic is in the routine. String enough of these microwins together, and soon, you’re building real momentum.
Examples of microwins include:
- Completing a 5-minute stretch in the morning
- Drinking a glass of water first thing after waking up
- Starting your day journaling with a positive affirmation
- Spending five minutes tidying up a workspace
- Reading your Bible
Micro-wins are powerful because they’re manageable and attainable, even on busy or difficult days. Each micro-win reinforces self-discipline and progress, proving that big changes are often built on small, consistent actions. Ultimately it reminds us that we are in control & that there are things to be celebrated every single day.
2. Make your damn bed
Honestly if you aren't making your bed first thing in the morning, what are you doing? No really.. what are you doing??
Are you sitting in bed building yourself to get out of your slumber like a 5 year old? Are you starting your day brain rotting by scrolling social media? This is where I am supposed to say "I'm not trying to be harsh" but that would be a lie. It should sound harsh, because the truth hurts sometimes, Brenda!! You are better than this!
I want to share with you a life changing, incredible speech "Make Your Bed" by Admiral William McRaven. Imagine this: you start your day by making your bed. Such a small thing, right? But here’s the beauty in it—making your bed is like the first little micro-win of the day. It’s a small task that you can control, no matter what’s going on. And by doing it well, you’ve already accomplished something. Boom. Confidence booster.
Admiral McRaven talks about how that one simple act creates a ripple effect. You make the bed, feel a bit more put together, maybe you tackle that next task a little better, and on it goes. It’s all about building that vibe of “I can handle this.” And get this: if everything else in your day goes sideways, at least you come home to a bed that’s made—a tiny reminder that you still made something good happen.
The whole point? Life’s built on these little wins, and sometimes the small things are what give us the strength to tackle the big ones. So start your day with intention. Make that bed. It’s more than just tidy sheets—it’s a reminder that you’re in control and ready for anything.
3. Celebrate your wins
We’re all chasing big goals, and it’s easy to get lost in the “I’m not there yet” mindset. But here’s the truth: every little win along the way is fuel for the fire. Those small victories add up, and they deserve a celebration (especially in business, parenting or any team environment).
Think about it. Did you drink that extra glass of water? Yesss, girl. Finally sent that email you’ve been putting off? Love it. Even just taking five minutes to breathe deeply between meetings is a win! Every time you give yourself credit for these little actions, you’re basically training your mind to recognize success, which builds real confidence over time.
Here’s what I love: celebrating these small wins shifts your energy. When you start to notice and appreciate those little moments of progress, you’re reinforcing a mindset that says, “I’m moving forward, and I’m doing great.” It’s not about waiting until you’ve achieved the big, shiny goals—it’s about seeing that every small step is a part of that success. And every time you recognize a micro-win, you’re saying, “Yes, I am capable.” You’re building up those confidence muscles, day by day.
So here’s your challenge: celebrate those micro-wins out loud, even if it feels silly. Say, “Look at me go!” Write it in your journal, text a friend, or do a little happy dance. The more you acknowledge your small wins, the stronger your self-belief gets.
