For example, maybe your teacher said homework should always be your #1 priority, so you still feel bad about relaxing. To cut back on remorse, give yourself a practical pep talk like:[1] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source “I’m not a bad person for liking guilty pleasures. I’m just human. ” “It’s really easy for everyone to get distracted or tempted. ” “No one is immune to wanting to de-stress or have fun!”
“When I think I’m not valued, I want to read a romance novel to feel better. ” “If I’m falling behind, then I just want to veg out and binge-watch a show. ” “Every time I get criticized, I want to retreat and eat some chocolate cake. ”
“I want more praise, compliments, and appreciation. ” “I’d love to be on track and meet all of my goals. ” “Honestly, I just wish I had more friends and allies. ”
“I’m worried romance novels are cheesy and aren’t the best books to reach for. " “Watching one episode after another is just going to set me back even more. ” “If I eat sweets when I feel bad, then I’ll start to feel insecure about my body. ”
“I am a valuable person who deserves to enjoy life. ” “I am entitled to experience happiness and joy. ” “I am a hard worker and am allowed to let loose. ”
Congratulate yourself for committing to self-care. Use all five senses and savor meals or experiences. Journal about certain pleasures, like a rom-com, that you adored. When you over-indulge in your guilty pleasures, practice forgiveness. Forgive yourself for overdoing it, just like you’d forgive your best friend.
Write in a “gratitude diary” about everyday joys, like your SO making you coffee. Thank others for how they make your life better, such as watching movies with you. “Count your blessings” and list out all the best parts of your day as a fun game.
“I have to admit, I love fantasy novels with hunky knights! What about you?” “I can’t resist reality TV, especially if it has tons of drama. Am I the only one?!” “I’m a fiend for desserts! Does anyone else have a sweet tooth?”
Research some indulgences and you might be surprised! For example, chocolate enhances heart health, boosts brain function, and lowers stress. [11] X Trustworthy Source Johns Hopkins Medicine Official resource database of the world-leading Johns Hopkins Hospital Go to source Make a chart or list of delicious alternatives for junk food. For instance, write that you can cook potatoes in an air fryer instead of buying potato chips.
“If I finish cleaning my whole house, then I’ll drink a glass of wine by the fire. ” “After I turn in all of these reports, I’ll stream that funny new reality show. ” “When I finish this workout, I’ll play a video game with my friends. ”
“Once I turn in this research paper, I’ll buy a new series of books!” “After a month of working out, I’ll go to a swanky restaurant with my SO. ” “If I get over a ‘B’ for every exam, I’ll treat myself to an amazing spa day!”
Put your physical, emotional, and mental health first—steer clear of shame because it won’t support any of these elements of self-care. Embrace yourself for having human needs, desires, cravings, and pleasures. You have nothing to feel guilty about and deserve a rich life!
