Knowing What to Celebrate: A Lesson in Focus and Execution

Some years ago, while working for a company, we secured a significant contract. My boss, thrilled by the win, invited me to join him in celebrating. To his surprise, I politely declined.

I expressed my disappointment—not because we had won, but because I felt the celebration was premature. I reminded him of the hard work and long hours I had invested in securing the contract, which he knew well.  For me, winning the contract was just a milestone, not the final achievement.

The Real Work Begins After the Win

Securing a contract is merely the starting point. It’s the promise of what’s to come, not the completion of the journey. Celebrating a win without a clear strategy to execute the project is like planting seeds and celebrating the harvest before tending the soil or nurturing the crops.

Unfortunately, this mindset is a common challenge we encounter in Africa. Too many businesses and individuals confuse milestones with outcomes.

A Common Misstep in Project Management

Imagine celebrating the laying of a building's foundation as though the entire structure were complete. While milestones are important—they mark progress—they are not the destination. Premature celebrations can distract from the work that remains and the ultimate goal of delivering results.

Focus on the Bigger Picture

Instead of celebrating milestones excessively, we must:

• Recognize them quietly and use them as motivation to push forward.
• Direct energy toward achieving the end goal—delivering quality, fulfilling promises, and exceeding expectations.
• Understand that success is a process, and the final celebration should honor its completion.

A Takeaway for Leaders and Entrepreneurs

As professionals, especially in growing economies, we need to shift our focus. Let’s celebrate real impact: projects completed, clients satisfied, and communities transformed. Those are the moments that truly deserve our applause.

Remember: Milestones guide us, but achievements define us.

What’s your perspective? Do you celebrate milestones or wait until the project is complete? Share your thoughts!