Don't Reward Yourself With Failure

Don't Reward Yourself with Failure

We're all partial to a self-congratulatory pat on the back, and why not?

Kudos for a job well done is as essential as the job itself. But here's the rub: What if the reward you choose is actually a booby trap in disguise?

You've vanquished a to-do list and it's reward o'clock. But before you reach for that slice of cake, remember -not all that glitters is gold.

The Health Hiccup:

Too many "treats" is a health time bomb waiting to explode - obesity, diabetes, liver disease, etc. It's the epitome of a Pyrrhic victory.

Discipline Downslide:

Repeatedly rewarding yourself with indulgences could weaken your self-control. A reward system that makes you a slave to your cravings? Sounds counterproductive.

Habit Hurdle:

Counteracting healthy habits with unhealthy rewards is like pedalling a bike with the brakes on. You're sending mixed signals to your brain.

Emotional Equivocation:

Regularly opting for food or alcohol as a reward could mask or exacerbate mental health issues. You're aiming for a trophy, not a Pandora's box.

The trouble begins when these indulgences graduate from rare treats to your go-to rewards.

Rewarding Right: The Smarter Way

So how does one steer clear of this sugar-coated slippery slope? It's easier (and more fun) than you think.

Experience Excursions:

Opt for a concert, a movie, or a spa day. These rewards are fun, memorable, and come without a calorie count.

Learning Leaps:

Choose a new book or course that'll enrich your knowledge. Feed your mind, not your sugar cravings.

Wellness Wins:

Treat yourself to fitness gear or a healthy cooking class. It's like high-fiving yourself towards better health!

Self-Care Spoils:

Schedule some "me time" with activities like reading, meditation, or a DIY facial. Nothing beats the sweetness of self-love.

Activity Applauses:

Reward your wins with a dance class, a hike, or a bike ride. Taste the sweet victory without adding to your waistline.

Social Spree:

Spend time with friends over coffee or dinner. It's a reward that feeds your soul, not your sweet tooth.

Hobby Honours:

Invest in your passion. Art supplies, gardening tools, or that coveted novel - rewards that keep on giving.

Personal Growth Gains:

Consider motivational seminars or life coaching sessions. The confidence boost they offer can beat any sugar rush.

Mindfulness Medals:

Indulge in yoga or meditation. Inner peace is a reward that doesn't come in a sweet wrapper.

In short, choose rewards that add value, not calories. Remember, life's a marathon, not a sprint.

Don't reward your victories with pitfalls. Ensure your rewards are as fulfilling as your achievements, minus the sugar crash.

After all, who wants to toast to their success with a glass of failure

Definition: healthy reward

A healthy reward is a personal effectiveness strategy that reinforces success with treats that boost your body, mind or skills rather than harm them. It matches the goal achieved, supports long-term wellbeing, can be repeated without guilt, and adds lasting value such as fitness, knowledge or calm.

Article Summary

Rewarding progress should lift you higher, not drag you back; trade the quick buzz of cake or cocktails for healthy rewards that add skill, strength or calm, and each win will set the stage for the next.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Did You Know: Key Statistics

About the Author: Chris Farmer

Chris Farmer is the founder of the Corporate Coach Group and has many years' experience in training leaders and managers, in both the public and private sectors, to achieve their organisational goals, especially during tough economic times. He is also well aware of the disciplines and problems associated with running a business.

Over the years, Chris has designed and delivered thousands of training programmes and has coached and motivated many management teams, groups and individuals. His training programmes are both structured and clear, designed to help delegates organise their thinking and, wherever necessary, to improve their techniques and skills.

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