“Do you want a cookie or a trophy?”

I don’t recall who introduced me to the phrase … but I remember the context: the sarcastic line was delivered when a young person wanted praise for something he was supposed to do.

For instance: “I threw away my trash.”

“That’s great. Do you want a cookie or a trophy?”

* * *

We all like praise. We like a pat on the back. But let’s not get so caught up on it that we feel slighted when we’re not acknowledged for doing what we’re supposed to do.

Just do the thing. It’s not about a cookie, and it’s not about a trophy. It’s about doing the right thing.