We've come to associate so many positive things in life with food. We celebrate birthdays with cake & ice cream, and we toast to accomplishments with champagne. Our holiday gatherings are full of everyone's favorite festive dishes, and dates with your main squeeze so often are going out to eat. While there's nothing wrong with enjoying your favorite treats on special occasions, we don't ALWAYS need to reach for food to reward ourselves.
On this weight loss journey we set goals for ourselves, and although some people may be content solely with the satisfaction of achieving that goal, most of us need a little incentive. Instead of promising ourselves pizza or that piece of cheesecake when hit the next goal, let's look at a few alternative rewards:
- Massage: Or any other treatment really. You don't have to shell out $100 for a massage if that's not practical for you. Instead, treat your yourself to a $10 manicure or an at home pedicure.
- Me Time: As busy as we are, it's so important to take some time for ourselves. Give yourself an hour to do something you enjoy - maybe a bubble bath, a yoga class (there are great online options too!), or even just some time for you to read.
- Explore: Try something new! Check out your local county or state parks, a museum (some even have free nights!), or a new farmer's market. Take your significant other, a friend, or go solo!
- Screen Time: I can't be the only person who loves a little Netflix binge. One week this summer I made a deal with myself: for every day of workouts that I completed, I got to watch an episode of Orange is the New Black. Guess how many days I skipped? Zero.
- Non-food Food: Maybe you want to try out some new spices or have been curious about a new flavor of tea. Perhaps you LOVE the experience of getting coffee your local coffee house instead of making it at home.
Your rewards don't have to be food! Be proud of your accomplishments and keep it up!