A Rerun: A Trophy Case at Home

We value what we show the world. For example, walk into any high school you will see a trophy case. It is filled with artifacts that represent accomplishments. There are trophies, autographed balls, jerseys, pictures and other items that help us "remember the past."

They serve two functions. The first is to remember accomplishments. They represent times when individuals and teams met high expectations. They stand for excellence and high standards. They also tell the current generation: "Try extra hard and you too may be awarded this honor." In other words, it sets a high expectation and rewards its accomplishment.

Very few homes have a trophy case, but each does have a refrigerator. When you combine a refrigerator, a magnet, a great paper, note from school, or report card you have your very own trophy case.

Invest in Yourself

Pick up a newspaper or magazine, and you will find an article on the impact of the recession. There are reports of reduced consumer spending, reduced profits, reduced wages, and reduced employment. Combine these factors with reports of increased competition, both internal and external, and the news is bleak. It will get worse.

Yet there are opportunities. Many of the best were not around fifteen years ago. Life is changing rapidly, and the pace is expected to increase. We will be expected to keep up.

One way to prepare for this future is to invest in yourself. Set academic standards very high. Study to meet these goals. Do not underestimate your potential. By preparing a solid foundation, you have postured yourself to take advantages of new opportunities. With high personal expectations, hard work, and a little luck, you may find yourself recession proof!