A little known fact is I have run 20 marathons, multiple half marathons and over a dozen triathlons, including two New York Triathlons (yes, swimming in the Hudson River).  The racing journey started after my daughter was born when I was 36.

I became a medal junkie.  Love the feeling of crossing the finish line after training for weeks on end.  Having someone congratulate me and place a medal around my neck.  I compare the feeling to a time when teachers/professors recognized my hard work in school and gave me an A on a paper, a test or a project (no pressure for you educators out there to leave a lasting impression on your students).

I am now curious how we can recreate this feeling of accomplishment and reward in our everyday lives.  At work maybe it is receiving a promotion or a bonus for a job well done.  But what about when you are the CEO of your household: a hug from the kids, a specially cooked meal made by your partner/spouse, a thoughtful gift recognizing all you do for the family, friends & neighbors.

I challenge all of us to go out and hand out medals, we all deserve it!