Recognition

Certificate, trophy, medal, award, these are just some of the things that a person may receive whenever he performs well in his endeavor. Being recognized, in a way, is a sign of success. Even if there are people who seem to feel uncomfortable when praised or awarded, deep inside, a simple recognition gives a satisfying feeling.

In our world today that is filled with competition, people do their best in order to get recognized. In sports, basketball players give their sweat and blood for that championship trophy. Olympic athletes do their best to acquire a medal for the pride of their respective countries. Recognition can be a primary motivator, and a primary goal to do something spectacular. In other cases, recognition may not be the goal, but is still equally important. In the entertainment industry, film directors produce movies for several reasons. It can be for art's sake, for money, for documenting important happenings or important persons, and/or many other things. Winning that Oscar award for best picture may not be the primary goal, but it surely is a welcome addition.

On the other hand, lack of recognition, especially when one deserves it, can completely discourage the person to do well. Have you ever felt the disappointment of losing against someone whom you think gave an inferior performance? Were you ever annoyed by the fact that your boss does not recognize any of your contributions to the department in favor of another "favorite" employee? Have you studied so hard for a graded recitation and yet got a low grade because your teacher gave you the most difficult question? These scenarios, unfortunately, happen a lot.

Recognition, therefore, can either make or break a person. As such, for people and/or institutions that are in a position to give recognitions, give it to the ones who really deserve it. But if all else fails, and disappointment arises, just remember that recognition is not limited to material awards, promotions, or cash prizes. It could simply be a "Thank you," "We'll win next time, promise!" or "I'm always here." This type of acknowledgment does not need an authority figure. It only needs a friend or a colleague. Also, in many occasions, this recognition can be worth more than the medals or awards that you could have received.