Definition
We feel indulgent when we give ourselves permission for more, leaning into excess without the usual restraint.
>> Why We Have This Emotion
Indulgence is our brain's reward system doing its job, sometimes running well past its useful limits. Pleasurable activities trigger dopamine, which helps reinforce survival activities like eating, resting, and bonding with others.
◈ How It Shows Up
Just one moreRules suspended for nowPleasurable numbness, not thinking aheadKeeps going past the point of satisfactionThe "I deserve this" justification
◎ What to do in the moment
Good Ideas
- Plan it so it feels like a reward
- Share it; It changes the quality
- Enjoy it without layering guilt on top
- Set a soft limit before you start
- Savor the moment slowly
- Check what need you're meeting
- Pick the version with less fallout
Bad Ideas
- Indulge to avoid your feelings
- Indulge to procrastinate
- Substitute it for actual self-care
- Keep going when stopping feels hard
- Use "I deserve this" as an excuse
- Indulge in secret
- Shame spiral immediately after