21 Guilty Pleasures People Confessed To That Will Make You Feel Totally Normal

We all have that one thing we secretly indulge in that we wouldn't dare announce at the dinner table. In fact, most of us may find ourselves making sure the coast is clear before we can kick back, relax, and indulge.

That, my friend, is what we call a guilty pleasure. Whether it's binge-watching reality shows while pretending to hate them in public or belting out 90s boy band songs in your underwear, we've all been there. 

Admit it, you've probably caught yourself diving into a weirdly satisfying hobby and thinking, "Should I be embarrassed by this?" Don’t worry, you’re not alone! They’re all part of the little quirks and habits that make us human—no matter how much we pretend we’ve got it all together. 

Recently, a thread popped up online, and people let loose about those quirky, amusing, and downright strange things they do behind closed doors. From oddly specific snack habits to unexpected hobbies that might raise a few eyebrows, it’s a delightful reminder that we all have our moments of weakness.

Grab a snack (no judgment here!) and settle in as we dive into the world of secret indulgences. Who knows? Maybe you’ll recognize yourself in some of these stories—or even discover a new guilty pleasure to enjoy.

1. The ultimate early-morning ritual to kickstart your day on the right note

I leave for work earlier than I need to so that I can go to the harbor beforehand for a calming coffee and smoke with the view of the early morning mist rolling across the sea and the early morning fishing charters leaving for the day.johnnnyboy22 , Klaus

2. Sometimes, reality just doesn’t measure up to imaginary adventures

I like to vividly imagine scenarios I'd rather be in. I'm a chronic daydreamer.DisastrousChange7155 , Andrea Piacquadio

3. Who says men aren’t allowed to have a creative side, too?

Cross-stitching. I'm a nearly 20-year-old man, and I've spent hours at a time doing those damn samplers!!!Walmart sold a cat kit that was very detailed, and I finished it in maybe 2 months; it's my magnum opus to this day.high-pitched-screech , Magdaline Nicole

Dr. Brené Brown, a renowned vulnerability researcher, emphasizes that guilty pleasures can often be linked to our need for connection and authenticity. She notes that indulging in these personal joys can actually help us understand ourselves better. Brown argues that embracing our quirks without shame fosters a more authentic self, which is crucial for mental wellness.

In her TED Talk, she mentions how self-compassion allows us to acknowledge our imperfections and find joy in the things that make us unique.

Creating a Guilt-Free Zone

To fully embrace guilty pleasures, creating a 'guilt-free zone' in your life is essential. Dr. T. Colin Campbell, a nutrition expert, suggests that allowing yourself to indulge can enhance your overall well-being, as long as you maintain a balanced lifestyle.

He recommends incorporating these pleasures into your routine without shame, as they can serve as rewards that motivate healthier choices. This positive reinforcement can foster a more satisfying relationship with both indulgence and health.

4. Just a quiet, happy life with someone who makes every adventure feel like home

I fantasize about living a happy life with a partner who is as happy about me as I am about them. Just someone to go do things with. Your_Local_Sheriff , Andre Furtado

5. A peaceful escape

I sometimes fantasize about just not being alive anymore. I'm not going to take my own life or anything, but it's somehow comforting to imagine not having to carry around all the burdens that come with life.coreyjamz , Pixabay

6. A 2-hour cinematic retreat complete with popcorn and soda

I leave work once a week and go to a movie theater to have a 2-hour lunch of popcorn and soda while I watch a new movie.Flyingcowking , Tima Miroshnichenko

The Psychology Behind Guilty Pleasures

Psychologists often discuss the concept of 'escapism' when it comes to guilty pleasures. Dr. Paul Bloom, a cognitive scientist, explains that engaging in these indulgences can serve as a coping mechanism for stress and anxiety.

In his writings, he suggests that such activities provide a temporary escape from the pressures of daily life, allowing individuals to recharge. Recognizing this can be the first step in understanding why we gravitate towards these behaviors and how they can be part of a balanced lifestyle.

7. When storms rage outside, it’s nice to know your loved ones are safe under your cozy roof

Especially when it’s cold or there is some major weather event going on, I usually lie in bed and think about how nice it is to have my wife and kids safe and secure under one roof. I’m not an actual hardcore prepper, but I do think having food, water, and supplies gives me a sense of comfort.Joey9999 , Andre Furtado

8. Thanks, Zillow, for the endless possibilities

Browsing houses on Zillow that I don’t plan on buying.wakevictim , Vlada Karpovich

9. And the award for World’s Best Cat Parent goes to…

Talking to my cats as if they are my actual children… I took them to the vet for a checkup over my annual physical once… I will do anything for them.Countrycat24 , Cats Coming

According to Dr. Andrew Weil, an integrative medicine expert, guilty pleasures can also play a role in overall well-being, provided they are enjoyed in moderation. He suggests that indulging in activities that make us happy—like binge-watching a favorite series—can be beneficial for mental health if balanced with more productive habits.

Weil advocates for a holistic approach to health, stating that such pleasures can contribute to relaxation and stress relief, essential components for maintaining mental clarity.

10. A life of peaceful solitude on the open road. Sounds like the perfect escape plan

I daydream about leaving everything behind and disappearing. I would live in a camper somewhere out in Wyoming where it’s quiet and away from the daily noise that brings me down every day.Tayesmommy3 , Kampus Production

11. Hmm. Be careful what you daydream about because you just might get it—never say never.

I daydream about making enough money to be comfortable, owning my home, having a supportive partner, and being happy. You know. Fantasy stuff.Striking_Parsnip_457 , cottonbro studio

12. A wise person once said, “Sleep is for the weak.”

Staying up all night. It's bad for me, but sometimes I get obsessed with a book or something. MomentOfHesitation , cottonbro studio

Insight from a Financial Perspective

Financial experts like Liz Weston emphasize the importance of budgeting for guilty pleasures. In her advice, she suggests that allocating a small portion of your income for indulgences can prevent feelings of guilt associated with spending.

This approach encourages a healthy financial mindset, allowing individuals to enjoy their guilty pleasures without compromising their financial goals. By prioritizing such expenses within a budget, you can enjoy these moments without the weight of financial stress.

13. Solo breakfast dates for the win

On Sunday, I go out for breakfast all by myself. This is my me time.northernwolf3000 , Yan Krukau

14. Wishing for a societal breakdown just to avoid Monday? Relatable.

Longing for societal collapse so I can avoid work tomorrow.ReefMadness1 , Andrea Piacquadio

15. If you don’t question every major life decision you ever made before bed, when else could you possibly do it, really?

Before bed, I often find myself imagining in detail how things might have turned out if I had made a different choice about something important from my past.esoteric_surgeon , Ivan Oboleninov

Dr. Helen Fisher, a biological anthropologist, suggests that guilty pleasures may stem from our evolutionary history and social bonding. Engaging in shared guilty pleasures, like watching certain reality shows, can foster connections and conversations among friends and family.

This social aspect validates our interests and can create a sense of belonging. Fisher argues that understanding the biological underpinnings of our joys can help us appreciate these moments as essential for social cohesion.

16. Because age is just a number, but Buffy will always be legendary. No shame here

I'm a forty-year-old man who watches Buffy the Vampire Slayer.Pizzagoessplat , Mutant Enemy

17. Smells good, feels good, life’s better with scents

Besides my wife, no one knows my guilty pleasure is smelly stuff. I'm a dude, but I love me some scented candles.idgarad , Castorly Stock

18. Nothing wrong with being the little spoon

Male here... I am the little spoon.MaxFury80 , Kampus Production

Balancing Pleasure with Productivity

Brian Tracy, a motivational speaker, emphasizes the importance of balancing guilty pleasures with productivity. He recommends setting specific time limits for indulgences to ensure they don't interfere with personal goals.

By allocating a certain amount of time for these activities, you can enjoy them guilt-free while still maintaining focus on your responsibilities. Tracy’s approach helps create a structured environment where pleasure and productivity coexist harmoniously.

19. From stepping on her toes to stepping into forever

I like to dance with my wife. By dance, I mean traditional waltz (family makes us all learn; my mother-in-law and my mom have been friends since kindergarten, so she put her in the same class as me). She thinks I hate it because when we were kids, I wouldn't stop growing, so I was always stepping on her toes when we had to practice together. I spent way too many years complaining about the lessons for me to admit that I like it when she asks._throw_away_87, Marcus Aurelius

20. You never know what you might find

I love going to stores that sell junk and browsing. I love stores like At Home, Dollar Tree, and Love's Truck Stops.don_teegee , Mike Mozart

21. Why wait for December when comfort is just a Netflix click away? Holiday magic is timeless

Christmas movies anytime I have a night to myself. Doesn’t matter what time of year. Just pure comfort.thefupachalupa , freestocks.org

Dr. Dan Ariely, a behavioral economist, highlights the conflicting feelings we often experience with guilty pleasures. He explains that our brains are wired to seek immediate gratification, yet societal norms often impose guilt for such desires.

Ariely's research suggests that recognizing these conflicting impulses can lead to healthier choices. By understanding the psychology behind your preferences, you can make more informed decisions that align with your values and well-being.

Like we said, there’s no shortage of relatable, hilarious confessions. Guilty pleasures are just one of those charming little quirks that make life interesting, so why hide it? 

Embrace the weird, my friends! And if you’re feeling brave, drop a confession of your own in the comments! After all, life’s too short not to enjoy the little things.

Ultimately, our guilty pleasures reflect our individuality and can contribute significantly to our emotional well-being. By understanding the psychology behind these indulgences, as noted by experts like Dr. Brené Brown and Dr. Paul Bloom, we can embrace them as part of a balanced lifestyle.

Creating boundaries and incorporating pleasurable activities mindfully can turn guilt into joy, allowing personal exploration while maintaining responsibilities. As we navigate our complex emotional landscapes, acknowledging these quirks can lead to greater self-acceptance and happiness.