SHARE: We all have bad habits. Whether it's surfing the internet to pass time, dilly-dallying when we should be working on a deadline, or binge eating out of boredom, our lives will be much more efficient without them. They can be unhealthy, time-consuming, and limit our productivity by hindering us from achieving things we've set out to do. However, there are some "bad" habits that scientists say are okay.
1. Getting angry
According to the American Psychological Association (APA), feeling angry can be healthy and even beneficial for you. Expressing your emotion when you're pissed off can help you let go of all your bottled-up emotions. It can also motivate you to take action and give you a sense of control over the situation. Lastly, venting your anger can help improve your relationship as long as you don't do it in a damaging manner. Opening up on what you really feel can bring you closer together. But being angry does not equate to yelling. Just be honest on what you want the other person to understand.
2. Being messy
A 2013 research published in the Psychological Science journal revealed that those who have messy rooms tend to be more creative. The study found that participants who were in a messy room are better at brainstorming new ideas and it made them more open to experiencing something new. However, don't use this as a license not to clean your room or to keep a cluttered office desk. The same study also found that an organized environment can cause you to make healthier choices. So tidy up after a chaotic work week.
3. Feeling sorry for yourself
We've always been told to not wallow in our sorrow, to pick ourselves up, and move forward. That is good advice. But embracing sad feelings can actually help us cope much better. According to a 2016 study conducted by Colorado State University, feeling sorry for yourself because of a break-up or when your expected promotion went to someone else can help you confront the problem and deal with the difficult situation more effectively. Another 2011 study on the Research in Personality journal backs this up, even citing that turning on the waterworks can help ease out your emotion. Crying releases mood-boosting hormones like serotonin and norepinephrine. That is why you sometimes feel better after a good cry.
4. Giving in to your cravings
When you get an urge for the munchies, you might be better off indulging yourself. Always saying no can cause you to feel deprived. When the restricted feeling becomes overwhelming, there's a good chance you will eventually reach the ends of your rope and gorge in whatever is in front of you. Afterward, you you'll feel extra guilty and will likely still want what you were originally craving. So give yourself permission to indulge once in a while. If you are craving for pizza, ice cream, or chips, go ahead. Do remember though to enjoy it in moderation and on occasion.
5. Worrying
Being too fixated on your problems will not solve anything. However, worrying just enough can actually be helpful. A 2017 research published in the Journal of Social & Personality Psychology Compass found that a little bit of worrying can cause you to be proactive. For instance, watching the news about the rampant robberies in your area can cause you to worry about your safety and be more vigilant in terms of your security.