The gold star equivalent for adults

That feeling when a big project finally wraps up, you crush a tough goal, or that much-anticipated bonus finally lands in your account? Pure, unadulterated satisfaction. But you know what often happens? We get swept up in the next thing, the next challenge, and forget to truly acknowledge all that effort. I feel like the power of rewarding yourself is so underestimated.

Think back to being a kid, where you got a gold star for a good grade, a treat for finishing your chores, etc. It's funny how those simple childhood rewards stick with us. That feeling of accomplishment paired with a little something special – it really did work! That desire for acknowledgment and positive reinforcement doesn't just vanish when we become adults.

That gold star wasn't just about the good grade itself; it was a tangible "Hey, you did a great job!" Similarly, that treat for finishing chores wasn't just a sugary snack; it was a little pat on the back for being responsible.

We pour so much effort and dedication into our adult lives – our careers, our personal goals, our responsibilities – and sometimes we forget that the "grown-up version" of us still responds to that same basic need for recognition. It's not about being childish or needing constant pampering; it's about creating those little positive feedback loops that keep us going.

When we consciously reward ourselves, we're essentially telling our brains, "Hey, what you just did was valuable and worth repeating." It's a powerful way to solidify those positive habits and build momentum for future endeavors. It’s like giving yourself permission to enjoy the fruits of your labor and recharge your motivation batteries for whatever challenges lie ahead.

So I say, bring on the grown-up gold stars and treats!

But how do you actually do it? What does a proper "you-go-girl" reward look like? It could be an experience, sure, but I'm leaning more towards something tangible. See, I think rewards are different from a vacation. That week off I just took to reset and decompress after a big project deadline? That wasn't a reward – that was essential maintenance! A reward, in my opinion, should be something tangible, memorable, and ideally timeless. Something you'll see in ten years and instantly remember when and why you treated yourself. It doesn't need to be expensive, but rather, something that will provide a lasting memory.

I remember when I completed my first major project at work. It was 9 months of intense dedication, and reaching that milestone just felt… significant. So, I went out and bought myself my first proper luxury bag. I even told my colleagues about it beforehand – kind of as a goalpost, a way to make sure I actually followed through!

I have always been one of those people who thought designer bags weren't "worth it." However, I started thinking of them as part of my personal reward collection, only to be purchased for a real effort or milestone, then it felt completely justified. I work hard, so why not? "A mortgage is why not, Shannon!" I can practically hear my Dad saying. But honestly, if you're sensible about it, why can't a girl have both?

So, as the career climbed and the pressure cooker hissed a little louder, I realized those "just another day at the office" moments were starting to blur. To keep the wins feeling like wins and not just another Tuesday, I decided to invent my own personal highlight reel. Forget the company plaque gathering dust; my version of a pat on the back comes with a bit more panache – something sparkly, perhaps, or a chic carryall that whispers, "Yeah, I nailed that." Consider it my grown-up gold star, just a tad more… accessorized.

✨👜