Appreciation Cakes and Mental Health

As the new year approaches, a new trend is being seen on social media, which is being called ‘2025 Appreciation Cake’. People make or buy cakes for themselves and write the achievements of the previous year on paper and decorate them on the cake. This idea is positive, as it is a way to celebrate small joys. However, this trend is also creating anxiety and pressure among some people.

importance of small successes

Why is it important to celebrate small victories?

Recognizing small successes is beneficial for mental health. Research shows that practicing gratitude increases life satisfaction and reduces stress. Psychiatrists say that celebrating everyday achievements increases the ability to face challenges. This trend inspires people towards introspection and brings back happy memories of the past year.

increased levels of anxiety

Why is the concern increasing?

However, this trend is also inadvertently creating pressure. When success is limited to visible achievements such as a job, promotion or travel, many people begin to feel small. Those who were facing mental struggles throughout the year do not get any ‘milestone’ in their progress.

social media comparison

Comparing the successes of others on social media increases guilt and frustration. The time of New Year already brings the pressure of self-evaluation. People wonder whether they had a successful year or not. Social media creates the illusion that everyone’s life is perfect, while real struggles are often hidden. Especially people between 20 and 40 years of age are troubled by the fear of passing of time.

New Year’s anxiety signs

New Year’s anxiety signs

• A sudden restlessness at night to calculate one’s life.
• Feeling sad or crying in the middle of a celebration
• comparing your life to others
• Guilt about unfulfilled goals
• Pressure to make oneself ‘better’ from January 1

ways to deal with anxiety

Easy ways to deal with it

First of all, be kind to yourself. Introspect, but don’t beat yourself up. Change the definition of success – to include emotional strength, breaking bad habits, or moving forward even during difficult times.

Limit social media use, especially at the end of the year and in the first week. Don’t set a strict deadline for new resolutions; change can be initiated at any time.

Create ‘intentions’ rather than rigid goals, like reading more books or taking a walk every day. Do exercises like meditation, deep breathing or yoga. Spend time with friends and family and enjoy the small joys. Remember, the New Year is not a test. You are enough just the way you are.

The biggest victories are often not visible, like not giving up, taking care of yourself, or quietly healing. Consider these worth celebrating too, even if just by watching your favorite movie or relaxing.