Self-indulgence

Self-indulgence refers to the act of allowing oneself to enjoy pleasurable things or activities, often to an excessive degree, and without regard for the needs or feelings of others, or the potential negative consequences for oneself. It's characterized by giving in to one's desires and cravings, often prioritizing immediate gratification over long-term goals or responsibilities. This behavior frequently involves a lack of self-control and discipline, and can manifest in various forms, such as excessive consumption, excessive leisure activities, or an overemphasis on personal comfort and convenience.

Self-indulgence meaning with examples

• After a stressful week, Sarah decided on a night of utter self-indulgence. She ordered gourmet takeout, devoured a whole tub of ice cream while watching her favourite show, and took a long, luxurious bubble bath. She ignored her pending deadlines and household chores, prioritizing her own immediate pleasure, and allowing herself to fully 'unwind' despite the potential repercussions. It was a break, but arguably excessive.
• John's self-indulgence with expensive sports cars was causing him significant financial strain. He couldn't resist the allure of the latest models, consistently choosing them over paying his bills or saving for the future. His colleagues and family members pointed out the issue with his reckless spending habits; however, John dismissed their concerns, enjoying the immediate gratification of the cars.
• The critic accused the celebrity of constant self-indulgence, pointing out the lavish lifestyle on full display, the multiple vacations and the expensive wardrobe. The critic stated that these actions demonstrated a complete lack of self-awareness and detachment from the realities of the public, and the celebrity was criticized for prioritizing their personal comfort and image.
• During her recovery, the doctor warned against self-indulgence in terms of comfort foods. Mary found it tempting to eat unhealthy snacks to feel better, especially when facing setbacks and discomfort. Despite the doctor's advice, she struggled to maintain a healthy diet, frequently giving in to her cravings and further delaying her recovery.
• The writer's self-indulgence in his novel, filled with overly descriptive passages and lengthy descriptions of the characters' feelings, ultimately lost some of the readers. The author included everything and overindulged the reader with too much information, making them find the book tedious.