The term 'Guilty Pleasure' has been around for hundreds of years and has mostly been associated with shame, embarrassment, frivolity & typically thought of as against social norms.
As a Coach, I don't hear very often how it has been a positive force in my Coachee's life until we start exploring things that make them happy, in our coaching sessions.
Here are my thoughts on letting the guilt go and celebrating pleasure!
The Positive Aspects of Guilty Pleasures
The words 'guilty pleasures' are not really helpful to me , so I reframe them as...
MEASURED PLEASURES (More on this later).
Here are some of the benefits of measured pleasures and why they can be an important part of a healthy lifestyle & mindset.
Stress Relief and Relaxation
Stress is a common issue for many people. From work deadlines to family obligations, there is often little time left for relaxation and self-care. This is where measured pleasure can come in handy.
Taking a break from the stressors of daily life and doing something you enjoy, such as binge-watching your favourite TV show, having a soak in the bath or dancing in the kitchen (other rooms are available!), can help you relax and recharge. It can also help to reduce anxiety and improve your overall mood.
Engaging in enjoyable activities can have a positive impact on mental health. It can help to reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety, and improve overall well-being.
Boosting Creativity and Inspiration
Another benefit of measured pleasure, it can help to boost creativity and inspiration.
When we're stuck in our daily routines, it can be difficult to come up with new ideas or think outside the box. However, engaging in activities that we truly enjoy can help to stimulate our brains and make new connections.
For example, if you're struggling to come up with new ideas, read a magazine or online article that interests you, watch your favourite comedy sketch on YouTube, get outside & take a walk on your own or with a friend/colleague, listen to a song that makes you smile.
Amazingly some would consider these things 'guilty pleasures' and maybe somewhat frivolous & a waste of time.
It's time to reframe these pleasures as tools to support productivity, calm, balance, creativity and our overall general well-being.
Strengthening Social Bonds
Indulging in measured pleasures can be a great way to strengthen social bonds. Whether it's attending a fan convention or joining a club/society, these activities can bring people together and create lasting connections.
When we share our interests and passions with others, we can form meaningful relationships and feel a sense of belonging.
Measured Pleasure and a word of caution...
It can be easy to develop an addiction to a particular pleasure, making it difficult to stop even when it's no longer enjoyable or healthy.
Additionally, overindulging in certain activities, like junk food or alcohol, can have a detrimental effect on our physical and mental health over time. It can sometimes lead to strained relationships with family and friends.
If we're constantly prioritising our pleasure over spending time with loved ones or fulfilling our responsibilities, it can cause tension and difficult conversations.
Enjoy your pleasures without guilt and do so responsibly. This is why I have renamed it measured pleasures to highlight the need for moderation.
Be mindful of societal expectations or pressures preventing you from enjoying the things that bring you joy and relaxation. Just remember to balance them out with the rest of your life and responsibilities.
In conclusion...
Measured pleasures are not something to be ashamed of. They can provide much-needed stress relief and relaxation, boost creativity, inspiration, and strengthen social bonds.
So, the next time you feel guilty about indulging in your favourite activity, remember that it can have many positive benefits for your mental health and overall well-being.
Now, if you'll excuse me, I'm off to indulge in my measured pleasure: singing Eurovision at the top of my lungs while cleaning the house. I thank you!
Till next time,
Ian.
Comentários