Guilty Pleasures: Should We Really Feel Guilty About What We Love?

We all have them - those little secret joys and indulgences we tuck away from the world, fearing judgment or ridicule. For me this list contains such things as watching Hallmark Christmas Movies regardless of the time of year or strutting around the house to a bit of Michael Buble. But, whether it’s binge-watching a trashy reality show, or blasting cheesy pop songs when no one’s around, guilty pleasures are a universal experience. But should the things we love really make us feel guilty, just because they might be different from the likes of others?

What Do We Mean By a Guilty Pleasure?

It is said that guilty pleasures are activities or hobbies we enjoy but feel embarrassed to admit, often because they’re deemed trivial or unconventional by societal standards. These pleasures can vary widely from person to person. According to a survey by YouGov, over 40% of Brits confess to having guilty pleasures, with reality TV and comfort eating topping the list.

So Why Do We Feel Guilty?

It is often thought that the guilt in guilty pleasures stems from societal pressures and cultural norms. We're often taught to value certain activities over others - think of how reading a classic novel is often viewed as more respectable than watching reality TV. This societal judgment can make us question our own tastes and preferences.

The Pleasure in the Guilty Pleasure

Despite the unease in sharing, indulging in these pleasures can often have really positive effects on our well-being:

- Stress Relief: Engaging in something we genuinely enjoy can lower stress levels and provide a mental break.

- Happiness Boost: These activities can bring joy and enhance our overall mood.

- Self-Care: Taking time for ourselves, even in small ways, can be a form of self-care, helping us recharge and feel more balanced.

The Downsides of Guilty Pleasures?

I can’t really think of one to be honest! Apart from potentially not ‘looking cool’ in the playground, office or coffee shop line, and perhaps getting a sneery remark from someone you probably shouldn’t really be taking advice from anyway, the downsides are very few I feel.

Want to embrace what you love without feeling guilty?

- Own It: Accept that your interests make you unique. What matters most is that they bring you happiness.

- Share It: You might be surprised how many people share your guilty pleasures. Talking about them can create new connections and reduce the stigma.

- Enjoy It: I think when we’re a little hesitant about something, we’re not full ‘in it’ to get the full enjoyment out of it, so go all in.

Pleasures (Formally known as Guilty Pleasures from now on, right?) are a natural part of life and can bring a lot of joy and relaxation. While it’s important to be mindful of moderation, there’s no need to feel ashamed of what makes you happy. After all, life is too short to deny ourselves the little things that brighten our days.