Whew—what a weekend. The kind of full, life-giving blur that included family time, a little wine, getting dressed up, a date night with my husband, a big party, and yes… indulging in fair food (hello, donut burger—I regret nothing). I’m tired in the best way: satisfied, recharged, and reminded of what joy feels like when you slow down enough to notice it.
Here’s the thing: slowing down has never been my natural mode. I’m type A, wired for productivity, and energized by momentum. My husband lovingly says I operate in only one gear—turbo. And for a long time, that turbo mode served me well. I got things done. I chased goals. I poured myself into every role.
But eventually, I realized something: I was missing a lot. I was zipping right past the beauty of now—all in the name of doing more, achieving more, being more.
And when I did take a break to enjoy something? The guilt would creep in almost immediately.
Can you relate?
- You take time for yourself—a workout, a pedicure, even just reading a book—and feel guilty for not folding the laundry or checking one more thing off the list.
- You spend quality time with your kids, but your mind keeps drifting back to the work email you haven’t answered.
- You have a long-overdue date night, and then feel like you’re neglecting the family.
- You focus on work and hit a win, but still feel guilty for not being home.
It’s an exhausting cycle—and one I’ve had to work hard to break. Because what’s the point of doing something good for your soul if you’re mentally punishing yourself the whole time?
Here’s what I’ve learned: indulgence without presence isn’t really indulgence at all.
It’s okay to enjoy the moment. It’s okay to prioritize joy. And it’s okay to let go of the voice in your head that keeps measuring what else you “should” be doing.
Yes, every decision about how you spend your time comes with opportunity cost. But once you’ve made the choice—whether it’s to rest, work, connect, or play—be there. Fully. Without apology.
Because guilt steals the joy from the moment. And joy is so worth fighting for.
So here’s your permission slip (and mine):
Take the nap.
Go on the date.
Eat the donut burger.
Say yes to the moment you actually want.
And when you do? Let yourself be there, fully. No guilt. Just presence.
Because that’s the kind of indulgence that refuels you, not just for a moment—but for the life you’re building on purpose.
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