How we feel about ourselves is many times linked to the language we use on ourselves. Whether it’s sneaking in a slice or two of pizza during a detox cleanse, or skipping a workout day—you name it — we’ve all had our “Guilty pleasures”.

 “Guilty pleasures” are things we enjoy doing in secret but are embarrassed to admit in public. Which raises the question, why do many people feel bad for enjoying things that make them feel good, particularly if no one gets hurt in the process?

Quick Fact: A recent study concluded that an estimated 84% of the population has at least one guilty pleasure, of which half of this estimate admits to ordering takeout as being a guilty pleasure.

You’d be surprised how the term “Guilty pleasure” is more harmful to you compared to the pleasure you actually THINK is harmful. Because of this often-misused term, many people seem to believe they should not experience anything they enjoy without feeling guilty. Here are reasons why it is mentally unhealthy to use the term “Guilty pleasure” and ways of incorporating these pleasures into your life in a balanced healthy way.

3 reasons you should stop using the words “Guilty Pleasure”

1. It limits your authenticity

Expectations to be consistent often result in feeling shame in our guilty pleasure A good example would be let’s say, you want to eat healthier so you can shed that extra weight, but you’re also a chocolate lover. For a majority of newbie healthy eaters, the impulse would be to cut off the chocolate for weeks on end. Such a move would be inadvisable: One, because it increases chances of a relapse, which would end in you binging on chocolate and/or chocolate-related foods at some point. Second, you’re not being your authentic self out of fear that you’ll lose progress or others will call you a fraud.

For such newbie healthy eaters, I’d say enjoy a piece or two of chocolate by either having it as a dessert or using it as toppings for your chocolate overnight oats. If you need any overnight oats ideas, you can access them in my Low-Calorie Breakfast eCookbook.

Bottom Line: The inconsistency between what you love and who you are can cause internal negative feelings. Drop the “Guilt” and be your most authentic self.

2. It triggers negative emotions

More often than not, guilty pleasures are accompanied by negative feelings such as regret or guilt, as it says in the name. Words such as “Guilt” are linked with condemnation, punishment, and judgment. It would be hard for you to fully enjoy a guilt-free pleasure if you’re constantly condemning yourself for something that gives you joy. Instead, try using a different term, such as “Happy pleasures”

Bottom Line: Find a balance for the things you love. The secret is moderation. Everything in moderation results in perfect balance.

3. It implies you’re weak-willed

Many people feel weak-willed after indulging in a guilty pleasure because society has made them believe that indulging is selfish. We live in a society that is so deeply focused on the importance of self-control and perfectionism that many people tend to “do” what society expects them to do instead of “being” their authentic selves.

Bottom Line: Perfectionism is an unrealistic standard, which no one should be expected to live up to. As Ann Wilson Schaef, a recovered perfectionist once wrote, “Perfectionism is self-abuse of the highest order”

If you try any of these tips and/or find them share-worthy – which I hope you do – please share. Tag #smodernhealth on Instagram and don’t forget to check out my other blog posts!