Conversation 1

Man: Wow, big box. What did you buy?
Woman: I bought myself a new computer.
Man: Nice. What kind?
Woman: I got a new Mac.
Man: Oh, cool. That must've been expensive.
Woman: A little, but I needed a new one.
Man: Yeah. I've been thinking of getting a new one myself.
Woman: You should. I find a new computer pays for itself because it makes you much more productive.
Man: True. Can't argue with that.

Conversation 2

Man: Why are you so down?
Woman: I did not get a promotion from the boss.
Man: Oh, I'm sorry to hear that.
Woman: I don't think he likes me.
Man: Oh, I'm sure he likes you. Don't be so hard on yourself.
Woman: Yeah, you're right.

Conversation 3

Man: Man, these cookies smell so good.
Woman: Please try some.
Man: Oh, they look so good.
Woman: You better eat some before the kids get home.
Man: Why? Will they eat them all?
Woman: Yeah, they can't help themselves.
Man: Well, I can see why. Your cookies are so good. Can I have two?
Woman: Help yourself.

Conversation 4

Man: I like your shirt.
Woman: Thanks. I made it myself.
Man: Really? I didn't know you sew.
Woman: I do. I make a lot of my own clothes.
Man: That is so cool.
Woman: It's easy. You should try it sometime.
Man: I would if you could teach me.
Woman: Oh, you don't need me. You can learn how to do it yourself by watching videos online.
Man: Okay. I'll think about it. Thanks.

Special Cases for Reflexive Pronouns

1. I made the computer with no help.
2. I made the computer (all by) myself. (Emphasizes no help)
3. You can learn how to do it.
4. You can learn how to do it yourself. (Emphasizes no help)

1. I often talk to myself. (normal reflexive pronoun)
2. I bought it myself. (emphatic pronoun)
3. He hates seeing himself in the mirror. (normal reflexive pronoun)
4. He gave it to her himself. (emphatic pronoun)

1. I live by myself.
2. Don't be hard on yourself.
3. It pays for itself.
4. I try not to talk about myself.

1. Help yourself. (Free free to have something)
2. They can't help themselves. (Have no self-contol)
3. Don't be hard on yourself. (Do not be overly critical)
4. It pays for itself. (The savings cover the cost)