I don't think you'll find an easier way to do it than the link you added to your question. That is the only way I know of. I think you effectively answered your own question. Isn't there a badge for that or something?
Also, a similar question was answered here: Styling checkboxes, radio buttons and dropdowns
It contains a few more pre-built solutions that you can check out. Without more information on what you are trying to accomplish visually, I can't say if any of them will work for you.
Good luck!
