Parenting: Indulge Yourself (In Moderation)
It’s a win-win situation: when my daughter helps me with household chores, she earns extra screen time, and I get some much-needed assistance. Last night, we enjoyed an episode of “Parks and Recreation” titled “Pawnee Rangers” from Season Four. In this episode, characters Tom and Donna embark on their annual “Indulge Yourself!” day, where they dedicate the entire day to self-care and enjoyment.
What may surprise you is that there’s a real technique to indulging oneself effectively. When preparing for their adventure, Donna suggests inviting their friend Ben, who she observes could benefit from a day of relaxation. She remarks, “He seems like a stretched rubber band ready to snap.” It’s true—when we neglect self-care, we can become irritable and drained.
However, Tom argues, “There’s no way Ben can keep pace with us.” Tom and Donna indulge in extravagant purchases and grant each other permission to enjoy themselves, which might not be the best approach. A vital life lesson in habit formation is to ensure that our indulgences don’t lead to adverse outcomes.
As the episode unfolds, it becomes clear that “Indulge Yourself” day is about friendship and shared experiences rather than mere material pleasures. Donna sings, “It’s the best day of the year!” They’ve established traditions that go beyond just shopping sprees, highlighting that the companionship matters more than the luxury items they acquire.
I would love to organize an “Indulge Yourself” day with a friend, focusing on wholesome treats packed into one memorable day. The truth is, the Strategy of Indulgence is an essential tool when it comes to maintaining healthy habits. By allowing ourselves small pleasures, we can hold ourselves accountable for our commitments. For instance, after enjoying a fun outing with a friend, I find it easier to stick to my workout routine.
When we feel deprived of treats, we often resort to justifications like “I’ve earned this,” “I deserve this,” or “I need this.” Such loopholes frequently undermine our good habits. In contrast, when we regularly indulge in healthy ways, we are less inclined to excuse unhealthy choices.
I explore the delightful Strategy of Indulgence and the amusing Strategy of Loophole-Spotting in my book, Better Than Before, which delves into the nuances of habit formation. You can read more about pregnancy and home insemination on this excellent resource. For those curious about their baby’s expected arrival date, check out this informative article on expected dates.
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In summary, embracing moments of indulgence—whether through shared experiences or healthy treats—can significantly bolster our ability to stick to positive habits. By striking a balance between self-care and responsibility, we can cultivate a fulfilling lifestyle.