The element of scarcity can make something feel like it shines more than it would if it were in abundance.  Sweet cereal is that way for me.

Growing up, my sisters and I were only permitted to eat sweet cereal one day of the year - January 13.  We started counting down days beginning December 25, immediately after opening our last Christmas gift.

In all reality, though it isn't really about the sweet cereal.  In fact, if you have ever eaten a box of Captain Crunch in a single day then you know it will literally shred the roof of your mouth.  No, what makes Sweet Cereal Day shine is that it is scarce.  It only comes around once a year.

Scarcity is also what elevates sweet cereal in the eyes of those around me.  I get phone calls and cards from former colleagues and friends who used to join in on my Annual Breakfast of Champions Sweet Cereal Buffet.  I call my sisters and my parents first thing in the morning to make sure they joining in on the day's fun.  The tradition has been passed down to my boys who, once a year, also have fun eating sweet cereal for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.  Ironically enough, sweet cereal - because of its scarcity - is also one of my most valuable tools for talking to the boys about healthy food choices and enjoying treats in moderation.

I even use Sweet Cereal Day to continue our thinking about Shine.

What makes sweet cereal shine is that this simple and otherwise accessible item, when made scarce, will get a second glance, become worth remarking on, evoke positive emotions, and even foster community connections.  Paper towels don't do that for me.  Crayola makers don't do that for me.  Romaine lettuce doesn't do that for me.

Come to think of it, the only other thing I can think of that does that for me is the Starbucks holiday cup.  And, it's scarce.  Available for a finite amount of time, only during the holiday season.  How about you?  Visit us in the Community Forum labeled, Today's post and give us your example of scarcity.  What carries extra significance for you, specifically because it is scarce?

P.S.  Consider grabbing a box of sweet cereal today, so you can join in on tomorrow's fun.  I am at Leadershape this week, but you can rest assured I will be sharing my fun with the students and staff!

Shining off from Day #3 at Leadershape...