While the term “treats” might seem like a trivial indulgence, it actually serves a vital purpose. Establishing good habits can be exhausting, and treats can provide the necessary boost. When we indulge in treats, we experience feelings of energy, care, and satisfaction, which enhance our self-discipline. This self-discipline, in turn, supports our efforts to maintain healthy habits.
Research indicates that even small treats, like receiving an unexpected gift or enjoying a humorous video, can increase our self-control. It’s a key principle of adulthood: by treating ourselves kindly, we equip ourselves to demand more from ourselves. Taking care of our own needs isn’t selfish.
When we forgo treats altogether, we risk feeling depleted, burned out, and resentful. Recently, I was chatting with a friend who claimed, “I don’t give myself any treats.” This statement led me to explore two significant ideas. First, regardless of whether he indulges in treats, he views himself as someone who doesn’t. This mindset could be detrimental to his habits. Although it may seem commendable to be self-denying, I would argue this perspective could be counterproductive.
Even something as simple as a warm cup of herbal tea or a fresh set of pencils can be a treat. When we deny ourselves treats, we often start to feel deprived, which is detrimental to our ability to maintain good habits. This sense of deprivation can lead to feelings of entitlement, compelling us to justify breaking our healthy routines by saying things like, “I’ve earned this” or “I deserve this.”
Secondly, I suspected my friend likely did treat himself; he just didn’t recognize them as such. After a brief conversation, he realized he buys new music every week as a form of self-care. For us to truly enjoy a treat, we must acknowledge it as one; labeling something as a “treat” transforms the experience into a more pleasurable occasion. Even small delights, like appreciating beautiful scents, can open up a world of treats.
We should aim to curate a diverse menu of healthy treats to help us recharge in positive ways. Interestingly, many people find joy in activities that might not traditionally be seen as treats. For example, I discovered that several individuals consider the act of ironing a form of self-care. (To explore other unique treat ideas, check out this link.)
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In summary, treating ourselves isn’t just a luxury; it’s a necessity for maintaining balance and motivation in our lives. By recognizing and embracing our personal treats, we can cultivate a healthier mindset and promote our overall well-being.