National Get Up Day

National Get Up Day is observed on February 1. This day celebrates the spirit of resilience and the personal strength required to persevere after experiencing a setback or failure. Founded on the principle that falling down is a natural part of growth, the observance encourages people to share their “Get Up” stories to inspire others. Whether facing a minor hurdle or a major life obstacle, the day serves as a reminder that success is not defined by never falling, but by the determination to rise and try again.

History of National Get Up Day

The day was founded in 2017 by U.S. Figure Skating to provide a national platform for sharing stories of grit and perseverance. The concept was inspired by the very first lesson every figure skater learns: how to fall on the ice and, more importantly, how to get back up. This fundamental skill serves as a metaphor for life’s many challenges. The inaugural celebration was timed to lead into the 2018 Winter Olympics, highlighting the tenacity of athletes who have overcome injuries and defeats to reach the highest levels of their sport.

While it originated within the skating community, the initiative quickly expanded to include individuals from all walks of life. National Day Calendar officially proclaimed the day to ensure it reached a wider audience beyond the rink. The movement grew through social media campaigns where people began using the hashtag #GetUpDay to recount personal tales of overcoming adversity in academics, careers, and health. Today, it stands as a legacy project of the U.S. Figure Skating “Get Up” campaign, emphasizing that the strength to rise is a universal human trait.

Why is National Get Up Day important?

This day is important because it destigmatizes failure and reframes it as a necessary step toward achievement. In a culture that often only highlights the “final win,” National Get Up Day brings much-needed attention to the difficult middle phase of the journey. By focusing on the act of rising, it provides emotional support to those who may be currently struggling with a loss or a mistake. It helps build a community of encouragement where vulnerability is seen as a strength rather than a weakness.

The observance also fosters a mindset of “growth through adversity,” which is essential for mental well-being. When people hear stories of others who have successfully navigated similar hardships, it reduces the feeling of isolation that often accompanies failure. This collective sharing can spark a chain reaction of motivation, giving someone the courage to take the next step in their own life. It reinforces the idea that every stumble contains a lesson and that the most inspiring part of any story is the moment a person decides to keep going.

• It encourages people to view their failures as valuable learning experiences.
• The day provides a sense of community for those facing difficult life transitions.
• It highlights the importance of mental toughness and emotional resilience.
• Sharing success stories can motivate others to pursue their own goals.
• It reminds us that even the most successful people have faced major setbacks.

How to Celebrate National Get Up Day

To celebrate this day, take a moment to reflect on a time when you were knocked down and had to find the strength to start over. Sharing this story on social media or with a friend can be a powerful way to observe the day, as your experience might provide the exact motivation someone else needs. If you are currently facing a challenge, use the day as a formal “reset” point to commit to a new plan or a small action toward your goal. The day is about taking that first brave step forward, regardless of how small it may seem.

You can also celebrate by encouraging someone in your life who is going through a tough time. A simple note or phone call to acknowledge their effort and perseverance can make a significant difference. If you are looking for a more active way to participate, consider visiting a local ice rink or trying a new physical activity that pushes you out of your comfort zone. This literal practice of “getting up” helps reinforce the mental habit of resilience, proving to yourself that you are capable of handling the bumps in the road.

• Post a video or story about a time you overcame a personal obstacle.
• Send a message of encouragement to a friend who is working through a challenge.
• Set a new goal to replace one that did not go as planned in the past.
• Practice a new skill that is difficult for you to build your “grit” muscles.
• Read or watch inspiring biographies of people who rose from humble or difficult beginnings.

National Get Up Day Dates Table