| posted on November 23, 2017
I WATCHED a particular TV series and it was the best thing that ever happened to me.
If there is one TV series you bother to watch, make it Parks and Recreation.
If you love Chris Pratt, fourth-wall commentary and epic one-liners, this show is for you.
Parks and Rec teaches its audience many things, such as standing up for what you believe in, how strong friendships can get you through anything, and that breakfast foods are the only foods worth consuming.
There is however, one aspect of the show that stood out for me.
Tom and Donna’s annual ritual.
Three words.
Treat.
Yo.
Self.
Once a year, these two characters spend an entire day doing whatever they want.
Clothes, fragrances, massages, mimosas and fine leather goods are nearly always on the agenda, and, no matter the price, on this day, Tom and Donna treat themselves to anything.
The point of me telling you this is I believe everyone needs to treat themselves.
Now, don’t think this is me encouraging you to take out massive loans to buy Ferraris you can’t afford, or to go on a six-month overseas holiday without telling your boss.
This is me, reminding you, that you need to look after yourself first and foremost.
Whether you are single, married, laden with children or just taking what life throws at you, a priority should always be looking after yourself.
I know it’s easier said than done, but it is important.
Every now and then, do something that makes you happy.
Whether that’s a new summer dress, a nice coffee, a walk on the beach or simply washing your car, take a few minutes a week (at least) to do something for yourself.
In this world, we are told too many things about how we should act and what we should do.
Once you’ve allocated enough time and money to your home, utilities, food and children, make sure there’s something left for you.
Unlike Tom and Donna, ‘treat yo self’ days don’t have to be about blowing all your hard-earned cash.
The idea of their shopping spree is about spending time together and enjoying the privileges of working hard and earning money and living where they do.
We are spoiled for choice in Albany for our ‘treat yo self’ days.
You can go to many different boutique stores or enjoy a coffee while overlooking our pristine oceans, visit historic sites or watch live entertainment close by, or simply drive along our coastline and breathe in the fresh air.
I have a bit of a naughty habit of treating myself very regularly to the odd hot chocolate, or shoes, or nugs, but hey, if you can afford it, why not?
Life is short, live it!
I am a firm believer of grabbing life by the berries and reaping all the fruit it has to give.
No one is going to live your life for you, so make sure yours is the best it can be.
Want a few ideas for ‘treat yo self’ days?
Pack some fresh fruit, some drinks, a hat and a book, and sit yourself down at Middleton Beach on a sunny day.
Buy yourself a coffee and, starting from the top, walk down the entire length of York Street and back on both sides of the street.
Go to your favourite shop and give yourself $50 to spend on something special for the new season.
Take your kids down to the park and enjoy being in the sunshine with them, and listen to their cute giggles and squeals of excitement.
Get on the swing yourself and remember how it feels to fly.
It really is some of the simple things in life that can give you the most happiness.
Just remember to ‘treat yo self’ to them every now and then.
