The following is from someone who has never won any lottery, lucky draw, or competition, and never got any reward or award.
Awards and award ceremonies are a waste of time and money. These demotivate other people who do not get the award and may increase animosity and conflict among people. People who do get the award enter into a race to keep getting these.
Most community awards are the result of nepotism or relationships with sponsors and may lead to a sense of entitlement. Awards involve finance and are mostly given to those who can sponsor, buy tables, and afford expensive flight tickets. People keep getting rewarded for the same thing they did years back with no further progress. Awards are given to those who are good at the game and not necessarily the best in the game.
The feeling of elation that comes with rewards is ephemeral. Want of an award may lead to frustration and disappointment.
Seeking recognition, fame, and money distracts us from executing our full potential and efficient use of the time we have. Once a person gets an award, he gets monitored more and small mistakes may be highlighted. He gains well-wishers and admirers but also enemies and leg pullers.
Importance and recognition is the main thing antisocial and narcissistic people seek.
Awards for real hard and genuine good work are great but how many get these because of this reason?
Is the focus on getting awards, not against the karmanye Vadhikaraste ma phaleshu kadachana concept?
Do we need an award to support the community, do something for humanity, and support the family?
Better than clapping, accolades, and awards are the blessings and well-wishes people give every day. Self-introspection is much better. Doing things for our growth, purpose, and betterment is way better than spending time on getting awards.
We should take the path we like even if it is less traveled and there is no recognition associated with it.