In an age dominated by social media, where accolades and recognition can often feel just a click or a post away, it’s easy to get caught up in the allure of awards. They glisten on our shelves, showcase our achievements, and provide validation in a world that seeks to quantify success. However, as I delve deeper into my personal and professional journey, I’ve come to realise that the true essence of my endeavours lies not in the awards we receive but in the rewards we experience along the way.

Understanding rewards and awards

Before we dive into the reasons behind this mindset shift, it's essential to define what we mean by rewards and awards.

Awards typically pertain to formal recognition bestowed upon individuals or teams for specific achievements. They come with tangible benefits like trophies, certificates, and titles. Awards can be prestigious, providing external validation from peers and the industry.

Rewards, on the other hand, encompass the intrinsic benefits and learning experiences we gain during our journey. These can be personal growth, newfound skills, strong relationships, or even a deep sense of fulfilment and purpose in our actions.

Recognising this distinction is crucial to understanding why we should focus on rewards rather than awards.

The joy of the journey

At its core, pursuing a goal is about the journey we take to achieve it. When we focus solely on the end result, the award, we risk losing sight of the lessons learned, the relationships built, and the passion ignited during the process. Each step, no matter how challenging, is a reward in itself. It’s the thrill of brainstorming a unique idea, the satisfaction of overcoming obstacles, and the joy of collaborating with others that make the experience memorable.

The awards might fade over time, but the transformative moments along the way become irreplaceable memories and learning experiences.

Sustainable motivation

While awards can provide a temporary boost in motivation, they often lead to a cycle of chasing recognition rather than pursuing genuine passions. When your motivation comes from the desire for external validation, you may encounter burnout or disillusionment when accolades don’t follow.

Conversely, focusing on the rewards, personal satisfaction, mastering your craft, and making a difference, ensures that you maintain a sustainable passion for what you do. You will find joy in creating, innovating, and growing, which ultimately leads to more significant long-term success.

Cultivating meaningful connections

When we prioritise rewards over awards, we foster an environment that celebrates collaboration, teamwork, and shared victories. The relationships built during stressful projects or late-night brainstorming sessions are often far more valuable than any trophy.

Acknowledging rewards encourages a culture of support, where people uplift each other rather than merely compete for recognition. This camaraderie can lead to a more fulfilling work environment and a sense of belonging, reinforcing the notion that we are a part of something bigger than ourselves.

A focus on contribution

When the spotlight is on awards, the focus can shift from the quality of the work to the desire for recognition. This can lead individuals or organisations to make decisions driven by the pursuit of accolades rather than the impact of their contributions.

In contrast, prioritising rewards allows us to concentrate on creating meaningful and impactful work. We become more focused on the value we provide to our audience, clients, and community. When our motivation is rooted in making a difference, we can create work that speaks to the heart, transcending any awards that may come our way.

Learning from failure

Awards can sometimes create an environment that fears failure. When so much emphasis is placed on recognition, the idea of making mistakes can become daunting. This can stifle creativity and experimentation.

However, the rewards gained from trying, failing, and learning provide an invaluable aspect of growth. By embracing failure as a stepping stone toward success, we cultivate resilience and adaptability, skills that will serve us far better than any award could.

In a world where accolades are often highlighted, let’s remember that the true riches are found in the experiences, relationships, and growth that occur on the journey. While awards can be affirming, the rewards, personal growth, meaningful contributions, and lasting connections, are what truly enrich our lives.

As we pursue our passions, let's shift our focus from the finish line to the path we walk. After all, it’s not just about collecting accolades, but about enjoying the rewards that come from doing what we love and positively impacting the world around us. So, let's be in it for the rewards, the real treasures of our journey!

In it for the rewards, not the awards