Okay babes let’s get one thing straight: life is hard, coffee is expensive, and the group chat is like, totally dead half the time. But you know what never goes out of style? A good old-fashioned celebration. Whether it’s your BFF’s birthday, Beyoncé dropping a new album, or yes, like, Mother’s Day (hi mom), turning up for the moments that matter is literally the secret to not losing your mind.
So, Why Are Celebrations Such a Big Deal? I mean, science totally agrees with me. Like, actual researchers have found that people who celebrate stuff on the regular are, wait for it… happier! Shocking, I know. A 2023 study in The Journal of Positive Psychology (which sounds fake but isn’t) says celebrating even small stuff can boost your vibe by 20%. That’s, like, better than a double shot of espresso and a compliment from your crush combined.
Dr. Emily Hsu from Stanford—yeah, we’re dropping Ivy League names—said, “Celebrations help mark time, express gratitude, and reinforce the social bonds that keep us healthy.” Translation? Celebrating keeps your soul cute and your heart full. Period.
Mother’s Day? More Like Mother Slay. Let’s talk about Mother’s Day for a sec. It’s not just about brunch and overpriced peonies, okay? It’s a global excuse to call your mom and say “OMG thanks for, like, birthing me and dealing with my teenage angst.” Even if you’re not super close with your mom—or if it’s “complicated”—Mother’s Day is still a moment to reflect, feel some feelings, maybe cry in the car, whatever. It’s healing, it’s real, it’s giving… growth.
Celebrations = Built-In Friend Therapy. Group vibes are everything. Like, when was the last time you screamed the lyrics to a throwback song with your friends at a birthday party or cheered like a lunatic at a Pride parade? Those moments are free therapy. Gallup (some fancy poll people) said in 2022 that people who regularly celebrate with others feel 30% more supported in life. That’s basically like adding emotional SPF to your heart.
Whether it’s Diwali, Eid, Lunar New Year, or Taco Tuesday, communal joy is powerful. It’s like, reminding yourself you’re part of something way bigger than your anxiety spiral or inbox. Love that.
Parties at Work? Yes, Queen! Also, if your job is draining your soul, celebrations might be your only lifeline. Like, companies that do cake for promotions or throw little shoutouts for birthdays? ICONIC. It’s not about the cake (okay, it kind of is), it’s about feeling like you matter in the Zoom grid. HR legend Lara Bennett said, “Workplace celebrations humanize organizations.” Aka, “We see you, bestie.”
Everyday Slay-abrations Are a Must. Not every party needs to be Pinterest-worthy. Celebrate the small stuff too. Like, made it through a Monday without crying? That’s champagne-worthy. Got your laundry folded? Someone alert the media. These little “yay me” moments literally rewire your brain to focus on the good stuff instead of just doomscrolling.
Make your own traditions. Start a pizza night. Do an “I survived the week” dance. Reward yourself for existing, because babe, it’s hard out here.
Final Vibe Check: Celebrate Everything Honestly? We need more glitter, more hugs, and more reasons to dress up for no reason. Celebrations give your brain a serotonin sparkle, your heart a warm fuzzy, and your group chat something to plan besides who’s bringing snacks.
So if you forgot to call your mom last Sunday—first of all, rude—do it now. Tell her she’s iconic. Then go celebrate something—anything. Life isn’t just errands and emails. It’s full of little moments that deserve a toast. Preferably with champagne. Or Diet Coke in a wine glass. Whatever. Now go be fabulous, and don’t forget to bring the cake.
XOXO,
Valley Girl News
