Rewards???

So I was listening to the radio on my way to work this morning and heard a McDonald’s commercial where they said to “reward” yourself with a breakfast sandwich today.  Shockingly, my first reaction was “what?”….that’s no reward! 

My whole life I’ve “rewarded” myself with food and now it’s the battle to get the remnants of the so called “rewards” off!  LOL….. It’s amazing how our society, in general, considers eating a big “reward” for something great!  It’s no wonder that when we are feeling down, we turn to food to help us feel better – to recapture the good feeling that we had that one time we were “rewarded”. 

There are lots of restaurant commercials on each day that tempt with delicious looking food and great deals.  It seems to be the one thing people revolve around….family dinners, dates, time with friends, needing to get out of the house so head to your favorite restaurant.   Now, while these aren’t necessarily a bad thing, it does all come down to moderation and watching what you put into your mouth.  I’m the worlds worst when it comes to maintaining control around my “favorite” foods.  It’s easy to overeat while you are catching up with friends (or nervous about your date) so paying attention is a challenge. 

Of course I’ve gotten off the real subject of my post and that is rewards…..so, what are appropriate rewards for something great (or even good)?  We are a society of instant gratification and rewards truly do make the world go round.  I personally can never wait for the reward (like a pedicure, hair highlight, facial, massage, etc) when meeting goals so I end up getting them whenever I want.  I guess through this whole process, the thing I’ve learned is that true “rewards” are living each day healthy.  Each day where I don’t wheeze at the top of the stairs or can tie my shoes without passing out…..that’s a true reward.  Living each day happy and thankful….that’s a true reward.  Being proud of myself and the little accomplishments….that’s a true reward. 

Guess I get lots of small rewards daily and never even noticed…..so I think that I will thank McDonald’s today for reminding me of the daily rewards I receive….and no, I won’t be “rewarding” myself with anything from their restaurant!