6. "I deserve this."
You always deserve to eat as a human being and have permission to eat anything you want, says registered dietitian Rebecca Scritchfield, a District of Columbia-based health and happiness expert. "Savoring a sweet after a not-so-sweet day once in a while is normal," she says. "However, watch out if you're frequently using food as a way to reward yourself or numb your painful feelings.
"Negative emotions are beneficial because they tell you there's a problem that needs your attention," Stritchfield continues. "Food won't solve your problems and 'reward eating' can often lead to a vicious cycle of shame, blame and dieting.