Parenting
Indulge Yourself (In Moderation)
Clara is excited because by assisting me, she can enjoy some extra screen time. I get some help, and we both come out ahead!
Last night, we caught an episode of the sitcom City Parks and Rec featuring the memorable “Indulge Yourself!” day that the characters Jake and Mia celebrate each year. They dedicate the whole day to pampering themselves.
Interestingly, there’s a real art to the concept of “treating yourself.” As they prepare for their day of indulgence, Mia suggests inviting their friend and colleague Ryan to join. She notes, “He looks like he could really use a break. He’s like a coiled spring, close to snapping.” It’s true: Those who go too long without a little joy can become tense, exhausted, and irritable.
Jake, however, argues (a line I find particularly amusing), “There’s no way Ryan can chill out enough to keep pace with us.” While Jake and Mia go for extravagant purchases and give each other the green light to splurge, this may not be the best approach. A key principle in adult life is to ensure that what we do to feel good doesn’t end up leaving us feeling worse.
As the episode progresses, it becomes clear that their “Indulge Yourself” day is really about having a blast and cherishing time spent together doing what they love. “It’s the best day of the year!” Mia joyfully sings. The shared experience, the cherished traditions, and the laughter matter far more than the high-priced items or fancy treatments.
I dream of organizing a “Treat Yourself” day with a friend, filled with wholesome delights, all packed into one fantastic day. Indeed, when it comes to maintaining our positive habits, the Strategy of Treats is a vital tool in the toolbox for changing habits. When we allow ourselves small indulgences, we can demand more from ourselves. After a delightful outing with a friend, I find it much easier to stick to my workout routine.
When we feel deprived of treats, we often resort to justifying unhealthy habits with phrases like, “I’ve earned this,” “I deserve this,” or “I need this.” These rationalizations can undermine our efforts to maintain good habits. However, when we have healthy treats, those justifications for unhealthy choices fade.
I explore the delightful Strategy of Treats and the comical Strategy of Loophole-Spotting in my new book, Better Than Before, which delves into how we form and break habits. It reveals the secrets behind creating lasting habits—really! If you’re curious to learn more, you can check out this one of our other blog posts for more insights.
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In summary, embracing the concept of “indulging yourself” in moderation can enhance our well-being. By planning enjoyable experiences, we can maintain a balance in our lives and support our goals, all while enjoying the process.