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.
Show CG4D Definition
- Reinforces the specific positive behaviour or goal just achieved
- Promotes physical, mental or skill growth and avoids health harm
- Sustainable and repeatable without negative side effects
- Delivers intrinsic, long-term value beyond brief pleasure
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
Here are some questions that frequently get asked about this topic during our training sessions.
Why should I avoid using food as a reward?
How do sugary treats affect self discipline long term?
What are quick non-food reward ideas I can try today?
Are experience days really better than snacks?
How do I choose a reward that matches my goal?
Can social time count as a healthy reward?
How often should I reward myself?
Thought of something that's not been answered?
Did You Know: Key Statistics
NHS Digital’s 2023 figures show 64% of adults in England are overweight or obese, up from 62% in 2020. A 2024 Perkbox survey of 2,000 UK workers found 71% prefer experience-based rewards, like extra leave, over food gifts.Blogs by Email
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Don't Reward Yourself with Failure
Swap cake for healthy rewards that boost mind and body. Learn smart, non-food reward ideas to celebrate success wisely and strengthen positive habits today.
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