Guilty pleasures are activities or habits that a person enjoys in their daily life, which may bring a sense of guilt or embarrassment. These pleasures or activities are of various types depending on your personal choice. These pleasures can range from unhealthy food choices to entertainment habits. These activities serve an important role of enjoyment and relaxation, but these are also considered silly by the society. Some of these guilty pleasures are listed below along with the reason why they are abnormally attractive.

1.   Unhealthy Eating Habits/ Fast Food

Food is a source of enjoyment for many people. People love to eat such food that brings them joy. These foods items mainly include: ice cream, pizza, burger, fries, soft drinks and etc. These items are delicious and at the same time guilty pleasure for many. This food gives satisfaction to the eaters but also make them guilty about their health. Either way people love to eat such items as they bring them joy and satisfaction.

2.     Watching Reality TV Shows

Watching TV shows is an activity of many people. But when watching reality TV shows, people often feel guilty because such shows draw them towards the drama happening in the life of others. And people often cannot stop themselves from watching such shows and hence it is a guilty pleasure for many. Programs like Keeping up with the Kardashians or The Bachelor provides a blend of drama, romance and entertainment to that attracts the viewers.

3.     Social Media Scrolling

Social media is a versatile platform that provides every type of information to the people. Some people have a guilty pleasure of social media scrolling as they cannot stop themselves from engaging into this activity. People often realize that such activity wastes a lot of time and they feel guilty of their doings but it is quite difficult to stop this as this generation is totally dependent on social media.

4.     Late Night Gaming

Gaming is a source of enjoyment and satisfaction for many people. People often enjoy playing games as it also helps to deal with stress and depression issues. At the same time gaming late night is a guilty pleasure for many people. Playing games gives enjoyment but too much screen time can result in serious health issues.

5.     Shopping

Shopping gives joy to most people. Many people find it relaxing to shop. But at the same time it is considered a guilty pleasure as it costs too much. Buying new things and dressing in new clothes gives satisfaction but it also provides a guilt of overspending. This act often causes a sense of shame among the spenders as they spend too much.

6.     Guilty Music Pleasures

Listening to music is a common act but it also provides guilt to most. Listening to pop songs or artists that are considered cheesy can bring guilt to many. Music tracks from artists like Justin Bieber and Taylor Swift often bring out a mix of joy and embarrassment. While this is an issue for many, people still like these catchy tunes as they boost their mood and provide them a happy environment.

7.     Binge Watching

Streaming services have made binge watching a usual guilty pleasure. Series like Friends and The Office may provide hours of entertainment, but the viewers feel guilty about spending too much time on screen. Either way such shows provide joy to the people. Rather than being guilty they find it a good escape from reality.

 The Psychological Impact Of Guilty Pleasures

While guilty pleasures are viewed negatively by the society, they still play a beneficial role in our lives. They help us from taking a break from reality and also help us to deal with the stress situations. Having a good knowledge about keeping balance within the guilty pleasures can help to lead a better life.

Everyday Life

In everyday life, guilt often comes from personal choices. For example, prioritizing work over family can lead to feelings of great regret and guilt. Moreover, choices like supporting products that are harmful for the environment, can bring similar feelings. In this age of heightened awareness, performing such activities bring about more regret and guilt. Cultural and societal effects play an important role in this regard. Not fitting into the expectations of others brings the feeling of guilt to the individuals.

Conclusion    

Guilty pleasures maybe a shameful thing but they offer valuable moments that bring us joy in our life. All the above mentioned guilty pleasures help us in living an enjoyable life full of good things. By accepting our guilty pleasures, we can learn to keep balance in life. In the end everyone is not the same and everyone has the right to spend their lives according to what they like. And its okay to have guilty pleasures as it is said that Its Okay to embrace what makes you happy.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are Guilty Pleasures?

Guilty pleasures are habits and activities that you enjoy doing, even though it may be embarrassing and may bring you guilt. Common guilty pleasures are binge watching and fast food eating.

Why do people feel guilty about their pleasures?

Guilt often comes from the social rules, personal expectations, health concerns and productivity. People may feel that performing such activities are senseless and not in line with their values.

Is it normal to have a guilty pleasure?

Yes, Its very common for people to have guilty pleasures. Such pleasures reflect the personal tastes and preferences and are a natural part of human experience.

Do guilty pleasures have any benefits?

Yes, absolutely! Guilty pleasures can provide stress relief, promote creativity and offer a sense of comfort and nostalgia.

How can I share my guilty pleasures with others?

Start by discussing your interests with your trusted friends and family members. You might find that they share similar feelings or might have their own guilty pleasures. 

How can I embrace my guilty pleasures?

You should know that everyone has their interests and likings. Reflect on why you enjoy them and allow yourself to engage without judgements.

Can guilty pleasures change overtime?

Yes! As personal values and keep on changing and evolving, what once felt like a guilty pleasure may become accepted or even celebrated.

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