I agree so very much! I’m absolutely awful at setting aside time for self directed recreation, and even worse still at indulging it when I do set aside the tim

I agree so very much! I’m absolutely awful at setting aside time for self directed recreation, and even worse still at indulging it when I do set aside the time. And I’ve gotten gradually worse about it as my life and responsibilities grew with adulthood and particular life circumstances. Gratefully, my pup needs play daily, so my duty instincts naturally reserve time wherein I not only can but must do something fun. And she’s really fun to play with! If it ever feels like a chore beforehand, that feeling vanishes instantly and it really is just play. The same goes for walking: also importantly beneficial if one is able, also something I suck at doing for my own isolated benefit, also something that’s an instant joy with pup. So much so that having her has transformed my general walking attitude from “okay I have to go there or […consequences]” (or even “screw it I’ll just deal with […consequences]”) to “let’s go exploring!” I know not everyone is suited to dogs and vice versa, but in case this resonates with anyone: yeah you probably should get the dog (assuming you’re prepared for the actual responsibility parts), or spend more time enjoying stuff with the dog you might already have. They’ll make you wanna have fun even if you’re not in the best spirits.