Celebrating Daily Wins: Why Accomplishment Matters in Later Life

claire80506
1 day ago
2 min read

Accomplishment and wellbeing: the A in PERMA

At Plan with Care, we draw on the PERMA model of wellbeing, where A stands for Accomplishment. This element emphasises the motivation, confidence and satisfaction people gain when they achieve something (big or small) that matters to them.

Why accomplishment matters

Psychologists recognise that accomplishment contributes to wellbeing at any age. In later life, it becomes even more important. As routines shift or abilities change, maintaining opportunities for success helps people feel capable, valued and connected to their own story.

Celebrating achievements — however small — strengthens self-worth and supports a positive outlook. One small success often creates momentum, encouraging further engagement and exploration.

When retirement feels like a loss

For many people, retirement is a joyful transition. For others, however, it can feel like a sudden gap — a loss of routine, role and identity. Work often provides structure and a strong sense of self, and when it ends, it can leave a noticeable void.

In these moments, finding new sources of accomplishment becomes essential. Small achievements help rebuild confidence and reconnect individuals with their strengths. They offer a way to fill that space with experiences that still feel meaningful and personally rewarding.

Small wins, big impact

In later life, big milestones may appear less frequently, but small wins happen throughout the day:

A walk enjoyed
A skill or knowledge shared
A craft completed
A memory recalled
A new experience shared

Each moment reinforces capability and continuity. And when these wins are acknowledged — through a smile, a kind word or a gentle celebration — their impact grows.

Meaning and accomplishment go hand in hand

Accomplishment strengthens meaning, and meaning strengthens accomplishment. When people feel their actions are worthwhile, they experience a deeper sense of purpose. In later life, meaning often arises through relationships, creativity, reflection and contribution.

Supporting opportunities for accomplishment helps people stay connected to these sources of meaning, even when circumstances change.