Metamorphosis

We’ve all heard, work hard play hard.  But, do we really believe this?  I always ask my clients in the middle of working towards a goal, “What are you doing for fun or to reward yourself for the work you are doing?”  Why? Many individuals burn out, if all they are doing is working.  Even, if they are doing or working towards something they desire. 

Because of this, I always remind my clients to take a break and/or reward themselves. The first time I do this, I get all kinds of arguments; mainly, time, money, or both. When I saw, Suzanne McLoone’s blog, post “Can You Afford Not To.” It spoke volumes and I totally agree with it.  She states, “You are the boss” of you, and if you don’t reward yourself, who will.  I whole heartedly agree.  

That’s why I suggest, when you have goals that can’t be accomplished in one sitting, set mini-goals or benchmarks all along the way.  This will allow you to check-in, refocus and reward yourself for the work you have done.  Also, don’t forget to follow through on your rewards; because, you might stop trusting the most important person in you life, “You.” Finally, make sure your reward is inspiring and enjoyable to you.  “bootstrapbusiness.org” has a wonderful blog posting on “Rewarding Yourself” which discusses this further. 
I’ve come up with a list of things that you can do, all for $20 and under.  Now you have no more excuses.  You are the boss of you and I’m reminding you to reward yourself.  Here are ten (10) suggestions.

1. Pamper yourself, buy a new lipstick, or get a Manicure the hand massage will be work it.
2. Go to the movies, the tickets aren’t $20 yet.
3. Take a night out.  Go see an off-off Broadway play or one at your local community theatre.  Make arrangement to see a local concert in the park. You can’t beat and entertaining evening out.
4. Go to a museum or gallery exhibit you’ve been meaning to see. 
5. Buy yourself a Flower’s.  Often you can get a nice arrangements of in season flowers at your local florist for $20
6. Buy yourself a $20 gift card.  Put it in your wallet and use it when you want to treat yourself. 
7. Change Your Space.  Buy a gallon of paint and paint your bedroom or office.  Rearrange your furniture.  It’s a great pick me up.
8. Go a Do It Yourself Craft Store.  Make a necklace, stuffed animal or paint a new coffee mug for $20 or under.
9. Send an email, text or even make a phone call to a friend, if possible someone you haven’t connected with lately. Invite them out for a cup of coffee.
10. Buy a local tour book, go online to your local chamber of commerce or look at what’s happening calendar in your local paper.  Take a walking tour of your city and go sightseeing.  Don’t forget your camera.  It’s vacation in your own backyard.

These are just a few suggestions.  Get creative.  I’d love to hear what you do, to reward yourself.

Trackback URI | Comments RSS