Too often we spend sleepless nights going over something we did wrong, what we could have done better, or a weakness that we perceive in ourselves that we believe is holding us back. But how often do you pat yourself on the back for a job well done?

The other day as I was walking home I saw a 2-2 ½ year old boy trying to climb up a stoop in front of his apartment building. I also saw him fall, pick himself up and try again and again until finally, he made it. And as he successfully reached the top he began screaming at the top of his lungs, “I made it! I made it! I made it!”

Each victory you experience yields a treasure trove of information about what you’re good at and often times, what you really enjoy doing. Rather than focus on where you are weak, look to strengthen where you excel. If you make this a habit, celebrating your successes will yield positive energy and improved confidence, and will keep those limiting nighttime thoughts at bay. And last, but not less important, increased confidence is what allows you to reach for those opportunities that expose you to greater challenges and continued growth.

We can all learn from a 2 year old. Here’s to your success!