In a world where bad news seems to dominate, it’s easy to forget the little moments of joy that brighten our days.
You know the type of small wins I’m talking about: that random smile from a stranger, catching the bus just as it arrives, or the pure bliss of finding an empty parking space exactly when you need it.
These everyday pleasures, often overlooked, can make a huge difference in our moods.
How Often Do These Little Wins Happen?
Surprisingly, these small triumphs happen more often than you might think.
According to a recent survey of 2,000 Britons, the average person experiences about 15 small wins each week.
For those between 18 and 29, that number jumps to over 18 wins weekly.
The survey, commissioned by Coca-Cola Zero Sugar, reveals that most people (77%) value these little moments of happiness more than grand, life-changing events like buying a house or having a baby.
In fact, 27% of participants even rated these small wins higher than such major milestones.
The survey also shares the top 25 small wins people experience, from finding cash in an old wallet (62%) to beating a personal gym record (16%).
As for me, I’ve never been one for the gym, but I can certainly relate to the simpler joys in life that weren’t even on the list.
What Makes Us Smile?
There’s a lot to celebrate, even in the mundane.
For instance, I’d count as a win those occasions when I manage to pick the fastest line at the supermarket (32%) or when I get paid more than I expected (45%).
Another victory for me? Finishing work just before a well-deserved two-week holiday (28%).
But as I’ve gotten older, the definition of “small wins” has shifted.
For example, now that I’m 71, I consider it a triumph when I get through the night without having to wake up for a bathroom break.
And remembering my password for once? That’s worth a small celebration too, especially when I don’t have to go through the painful process of resetting it. Even checking my pockets and finding my keys, glasses, or freedom pass before I leave the house feels like a little victory these days.
Small Wins in Married Life
These small wins aren’t just about personal triumphs.
For those of us who’ve been married for decades, there are little victories that can feel just as sweet.
For example, I consider it a rare win when I buy my wife a gift she actually likes and doesn’t return.
Or when I manage to load the dishwasher the “right” way without getting a lecture.
And let’s not forget those moments of praise when I somehow manage to fix something in the house—although the secret usually involves nothing more than switching the appliance off and on again (but don’t tell her that).
Of course, there’s no greater win than hearing those magical words: “Yes, darling, you were right, and I was wrong.” Those words don’t come around often, but when they do, they’re worth their weight in gold.
Small Wins for Everyone
It’s not just us older folks who experience small wins.
Take, for example, the delight of calling a customer service line and actually getting a real person on the other end of the line.
Or when you let a car pass, and the driver gives you a friendly wave of thanks—something that’s increasingly rare these days in the hustle and bustle of city life.
Or how about those moments when your car is the first to get off the ferry, or your suitcase is the first to appear on the airport carousel? These rare moments, though fleeting, set the tone for a great start to any holiday.
The Joy of Little Pleasures
There are, of course, the more guilty pleasures.
Who doesn’t feel a little thrill when a politician gets caught out for unethical behavior or financial scandals? It’s a fleeting joy, but a joy nonetheless.
And when we finally get a cold-calling scammer to believe they’ve found an easy target, only to shut them down with a sharp response? That’s a victory we can all celebrate.
But on a more wholesome note, there’s the joy of receiving a funny video from the grandkids or the first signs of spring with snowdrops popping up in the park.
And don’t get me started on the satisfaction of completing a crossword puzzle in record time or finding that last missing piece of the jigsaw under the table.
Gratitude for Small Wins
Even on days when I’m unsure what to write about, it’s amazing how many small wins there are to reflect on.
One of my personal favorites is receiving letters or emails from readers telling me they’ve enjoyed something I’ve written.
It’s a small gesture, but it’s enough to brighten my day.
In the end, it’s clear that these small wins make life richer and more enjoyable.
Although Coca-Cola Zero might recommend celebrating these moments with a cold drink, I’m happy to stick with my pint at the pub.
After all, the joy isn’t in the drink—it’s in the little victories that make each day just a bit better.