Read the directive above and think of one thing you could do for yourself because you deserve it.
My guess is that if you're under thirty, your thoughts turned to buying something for yourself; or treating yourself to a great meal, or a few drinks; or seeing a movie you've been waiting to see; or going to a concert; or getting a massage; or giving in and munching down that bag of chips or that donut...stuff like that.
If you're a bit older, you might have thought of some less "glitzy" options, like a quiet night at home with a healthy home-cooked meal; or a good workout or yoga class; or calling an old friend or loved on you haven't spoken to in a while; or turning in early tonight to be super-rested for tomorrow.
The difference between the two groups is that younger people are more likely to look at doing "something nice for themselves" as pampering themselves. As attaining instant gratification for themselves. That's natural. They haven't been around as long; they don't see the long game as readily.
Older people know that the satisfaction you get from pampering yourself gives you a lot of enjoyment in the moment, but that feeling wears off quickly.
They appreciate the difference between pampering yourself and taking care of yourself.
Taking care of yourself is less romantic. It's doing things like making sure you get a medical checkup every year, and having your teeth cleaned twice a year; working out at least three times a week; keeping up with the news, and your friends; and putting some volunteer work in; etc. It's generally about shunning the short-term joy for the long-term satisfaction.
I don't think I need to spell out which is better for you between pampering yourself and taking care of yourself.
The question is - Next time you do something nice for yourself because you deserve it (and make no mistake; you do deserve it), which will you choose?
Pampering or caring?
