Success can be measured in many ways. Maybe you brown bagged a healthy lunch today instead of eating out at a burger joint; or you got up earlier in the morning so you could work out; or you made a point of getting at least 8 hours of sleep this week (lack of sleep has been linked to weight gain!). Whatever your achievements on the South Beach Diet, large or small, you deserve more than just an imaginary pat on the back from time to time! And, it doesn’t mean you have to take a diet detour; there are plenty of ways to reward yourself for your accomplishments without sabotaging your positive efforts. Here are some nonfood rewards:
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Treat
yourself. Maybe it’s an iPad, a new book, a
piece of jewelry, a flattering outfit, or a DVD collection. Whatever you’ve
been wishing for in the past few months, go for the splurge! And, who doesn’t
appreciate a day at the salon or spa? You’ll be surprised by how relaxing and
rewarding a pedicure, facial, or massage can be. Or better yet, treat yourself
to a high-end haircut or new color to match your newfound confidence. For men,
take a day to enjoy a few rounds at the golf course, buy a new pair of slacks,
or get tickets to see your favorite sports team play. Or, you can invest in
something that will help you reach your goals, such as a personal training session
at the gym, workout clothes, or a new set of barbecue tools.
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Enjoy a night (or day) out. A night out with friends doesn’t need to be a food-focused
event. Skip the dinner reservations and enjoy your healthy South Beach Diet
meal at home. Then go out to see a movie or play with a friend. If you’re going
to a cocktail party, be sure to fix yourself a healthy snack beforehand. During
the daytime, do something active: Take a bike ride to a different town and go
sightseeing, visit a museum or art gallery, or sign up for a physical activity,
such as tennis lessons, rock climbing, or dance lessons.
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Brighten
your day with small changes. Decorate your home or office with some fresh-cut
flowers to serve as a reminder of your success, or add some new touches to your
furniture, like a new set of pillows for your couch or bed, a painting or photo
that inspires happy memories, picture frames that show off your
before-and-after photos, or a new bookcase to house your workout DVDs.
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Make
time for you. Once the
dishes are washed, the kids are in bed, and the dog or cat is fed, make time
for yourself. Enjoy a relaxing bubble bath where you can meditate on the good
things in life. Or, if bubbles aren’t your thing, sit in a comfy chair and
listen to some soothing music, or lose yourself in a fun book or magazine
(avoid the news!). Or, you can simply lie
down, close your eyes, and reflect on the day. Think about the things you
accomplished and how you’re setting yourself up for an equally successful day tomorrow.
