Let’s talk about something many of us secretly love but rarely celebrate out loud—guilty pleasures. You know the ones: the triple-chocolate brownie you “shouldn’t” have, the afternoon nap that goes longer than planned, the feel-good rom-com you’ve watched for the tenth time. They bring joy, comfort, and even healing in a way that sometimes defies logic, but they often come with a side of guilt.
Here’s the thing: maybe it’s time to stop feeling guilty for what brings us happiness. What if we began calling them what they really are—enjoyable indulgences, delightful pleasures, or even just satisfying moments of joy?
We’ve been taught, especially as caregivers, helpers, or spiritual seekers, that self-sacrifice equals virtue. That taking time for ourselves, or enjoying something just because it feels good, is somehow wrong or frivolous. But I invite you to consider this: anything that nourishes your soul, lights up your heart, or helps you feel more like you—that’s not guilt-worthy. That’s sacred self-care.
Reframing the Language: Guilt Out, Delight In
Words are powerful. “Guilty pleasure” implies wrongdoing. But where’s the harm in delighting in a hot fudge sundae on a sunny afternoon? Or curling up in bed with your favorite cozy mystery when the world feels like too much?
Let’s play with the words a bit. How does it feel to call that same sundae an enjoyable indulgence? Or that long walk through the farmer’s market a delightful pleasure? There’s a lightness, a permission, a freedom that comes when we let ourselves enjoy what we enjoy—fully, gratefully, and without apology.
A Sundae With No Side of Shame
Let me give you a real-life example: I was recently out with a friend, and we decided to treat ourselves to the old-fashioned ice cream parlor in town. I ordered a hot fudge sundae—extra whipped cream, of course—and as soon as it arrived, I caught myself saying, “Oh, I shouldn’t be eating this…”
And then I stopped.
Wait a second. Why shouldn’t I be eating something I had looked forward to all week? Something I was enjoying in the company of a dear friend on a beautiful day? That sundae became something more—it became an act of celebration. Of presence. Of honoring joy.
And you know what? It tasted even better when I dropped the guilt and fully savored it.
Why This Shift Matters
Here’s why I believe this matters so much: pleasure is part of well-being. When we chronically deny ourselves enjoyment, we chip away at our joy reserves. We start seeing self-care as something we have to earn, instead of something we are worthy of just by being alive.
When we let ourselves feel good—without guilt—we reinforce this sacred truth: our joy is valid. Our desires are not a problem. Our delight is divine.
A Few Tips to Help You Embrace Your Delight:
1. Notice the Guilt Voice
When you feel a twinge of guilt creep in, pause and gently ask yourself, “Is this really wrong, or am I just conditioned to feel bad about enjoying myself?” Awareness is the first step toward change.
2. Reframe the Words
Try replacing “guilty pleasure” with something kinder and more accurate. “This is a delightful indulgence that nourishes me.” Say it aloud if you can—it helps retrain your inner narrative.
3. Savor Fully
Whether it’s a fancy coffee, a bubble bath, or a rerun of your favorite sitcom, give yourself permission to savor it. Put your phone down. Be present. Breathe in the pleasure.
4. Make It Sacred
Treat your indulgences as small rituals of self-love. Light a candle. Say a blessing. Whisper a thank you. Bring intention to your enjoyment.
5. Let Joy Be Enough
You don’t need a reason to do something that makes you happy. It doesn’t have to be productive. Let joy be the reason, the reward, and the result.
Your Happiness Is a Healing Force
Dear One, your joy isn’t selfish. It’s healing. It’s magnetic. It’s your divine light shining in the world. And when you honor your happiness—through the simple pleasures, the sweet indulgences, the quiet delights, you give others permission to do the same.
So go ahead: order the sundae, buy the sparkly earrings, dance in your kitchen to 80s hits. Let your pleasures be guilt-free and glorious. Let them be a part of your well-being, not apart from it.
You are worthy of joy.
You are allowed to indulge.
You are allowed to feel good.
With love and delight,
Becky & Janette
Well-Being and Wonder