Parenting
Indulge Yourself (In Moderation)
Updated: Dec. 20, 2015
Originally Published: Oct. 25, 2014
One of the perks of parenting is the collaboration that often occurs at home. For instance, my daughter is excited to help me with chores because it means she gets to watch extra TV. It’s a win-win situation: I receive assistance, and she enjoys her favorite shows!
Last night, we watched an episode from “Parks and Recreation” titled “Pawnee Rangers” from Season Four. In this episode, two characters, Tom and Donna, celebrate their annual “Indulge Yourself!” day, dedicating the entire day to self-care. Surprisingly, there is a skill involved in the art of self-indulgence.
When planning their adventure, Donna suggests inviting their friend and colleague, Ben, along for the day. She observes, “He could really use a break; he’s like a frail rubber band that’s about to snap.” This observation rings true—individuals who neglect self-care often become irritable and exhausted. However, Tom counters, saying, “There’s no way Ben can keep up with our pace.”
Tom and Donna indulge in extravagant purchases, giving each other the green light to splurge. However, this approach raises concerns. A vital principle to remember is that our self-care practices should enhance our well-being rather than detract from it.
As the episode progresses, it becomes evident that “Indulge Yourself” day is less about the materialistic acquisitions and more about the shared experience and joy of friendship. Donna sings, “It’s the best day of the year!” They create cherished memories and traditions, reminding us that the time spent together holds more value than the luxurious items they acquire.
I would love to organize a “Self-Indulgence” day with a friend, focusing on healthy treats and enjoyable activities. Indeed, when it comes to maintaining our positive habits, the principle of treating ourselves is an essential strategy in the habit-formation toolkit. By allowing ourselves moments of pleasure, we can motivate ourselves to uphold our commitments. For example, after a delightful outing with a friend, I find it easier to stay dedicated to my fitness routine.
When we deprive ourselves of indulgences, we often rationalize unhealthy choices with excuses like, “I’ve earned this,” or “I deserve it.” These justifications can lead to breaking good habits. In contrast, when we incorporate healthy treats into our lives, we are less likely to feel guilty about our choices.
I explore this enjoyable concept of self-care and the amusing notion of spotting loopholes in my latest book, Better Than Before, which delves into the intricacies of habit development. For further insights, you may want to check out this link.
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Summary
In summary, the essence of self-indulgence lies in creating meaningful experiences rather than material possessions. Balancing treats with healthy habits can enhance our well-being. Taking time for ourselves fosters better commitment to our goals, ultimately leading to a more fulfilling life.