1. Pamper your tresses.
Everyone feels fabulous when stepping out of a salon, which makes a new hairstyle and colour a firm favourite on the rewards list. On a budget? No problem! Schwartzkopf Color Masks (R129.99) deliver rich, long-lasting colour and luxurious shine at a fraction of the cost of a salon visit, allowing you to unleash your inner hair goddess no matter your budget status!
2. Romance the ordinary.
Give yourself permission to relax. While this may sound silly, psychologist, Claire Newton, says many people never put themselves onto their own priority list because they feel guilty about taking time for themselves! “Learn to let go of this guilt and accept leisure time for what it is – a life enhancing gift to ourselves,” says Claire. This ‘me-time’ can be highly effective at a low cost. For example, a simple soak in a warm bath filled with relaxing essential oils or reading an interesting book or magazine with your favourite beverage. “Having a bath in the evening will also enable you to sleep better, which helps you cope more effectively with the challenges of the following day. Just 15 or 20 minutes is all you need to reap hours of benefits,” says Claire.
P.S. Don’t underestimate the pleasures of inexpensive beauty treats. For example, you can transport your mind and senses to poolside holidays with the new Nivea Cocoa Butter body moisturiser.
3. Train your brain.
One of the best gifts your can give yourself is to learn a new skill. Women spend so much time supporting the extra-mural commitments of their children and husbands that they often overlook themselves says Claire. So, when you reach an important milestone in your weight loss journey, treat yourself by focusing on your own devel-opment. “How about enrolling in a dance class or an art lesson? Further your educa-tion by taking night classes or courses. Learning a new skill that is just about you, and what you want, is hugely empowering, liberating and satisfying,” says Claire.
4. Update your space
Update the soft furnishings in your favourite room. This reward need not be as pricey as it seems. New curtains, cushions, throws or ornaments will create an up-dated look and feel, and are widely available at budget stores like Mr Price Home. However, bear in mind that these furnishings have longevity too, so if your budget allows, go ahead and splurge on a special item when celebrating major milestones! As the adage says, ‘a change is as good as a holiday!’
5. A massage is a great way to treat yourself
Book a treatment at a good salon for pure indulgence or choose from a variety of massage products designed for home use. These are more affordable and obviously include the benefit of longevity.
6. Go big!
This includes anything you have been dreaming about, making it the perfect reward for reaching target weight. For example, splurge on yourself (think makeovers, new wardrobes, a pair of designer shoes, cosmetic enhancements) upgrade your digital life or plan a special trip away. But remember, only something grand and utterly indulgent will do! ■
More reward ideas!
- Take time out during the week! Things always feel more indulgent when you’re having fun and everyone else is working!
- Buy yourself a bouquet of beautiful flowers.
- Subscribe to your favourite magazine.
- Put R5 in a jar every time you lose weight and once you reach R50, buy something to celebrate your consistency.
- Buy a new item of clothing…something a little more revealing than you would have considered before!
