There are certain habits and quirks that many of us share but rarely admit to. These are the little things we do in the privacy of our own lives—inside jokes with ourselves, so to speak. While they might seem trivial or even embarrassing, they also connect us as shared human experiences. So, let’s embrace these universal truths with open arms and a knowing smile. Here are 15 things we pretend we don’t do, but absolutely still do.
1. Google Yourself
You’ve done it at least once—typed your name into Google’s search bar to see what the vast internet holds about you. It’s a mix of curiosity and vanity, checking whether your social media profiles or achievements appear. While you might dismiss it as harmless fun, there’s a genuine interest in managing your online reputation. After all, in this digital age, who doesn’t want to know what others can easily find out about them?
A study published by the Pew Research Center found that about 57% of internet users have searched for their own name online. This behavior reflects not just curiosity, but an awareness of the digital footprint we all leave. Knowing what’s publicly accessible about ourselves helps us navigate our online personas and maintain control over our personal narratives. So while you might laugh it off, it’s a practical habit more than a narcissistic one.
2. Judge People’s Grocery Carts
Standing in line at the checkout, you can’t help but glance at the contents of someone else’s cart. You create narratives in your head about their lifestyle based on their selections. A cart filled with organic foods might suggest health-consciousness, while a basket overflowing with frozen dinners might imply a busy schedule or a lack of culinary interest. It’s an exercise in people-watching, and as much as you know these assumptions might be unfounded, it’s hard to resist the temptation.
What’s fascinating is how these snap judgments reflect our own biases and values. When you judge someone else’s choices, you’re often subconsciously validating your own. It becomes a reflection of your priorities, whether in health, convenience, or indulgence. While it’s important to catch yourself in these moments, recognizing how they mirror your perspectives adds a layer of introspection.
3. Talk to Your Pet Like a Baby
You find yourself chatting with your furry friends, narrating your day or asking for their opinion on your outfit. You know they don’t understand, yet there’s something comforting in the exchange. These conversations can feel therapeutic, providing a sense of companionship without judgment. It’s an opportunity to vocalize thoughts and emotions in a safe space, where your pet might even respond with a nuzzle or tail wag.
Experts from the American Psychological Association suggest that this behavior is a sign of intelligence and empathy. Naming and speaking to animals, a concept known as anthropomorphism, allows you to practice social skills and emotional expression. It’s a testament to the human need for connection, illustrating that pets can play an integral role in emotional well-being. So, when you find yourself chatting with your cat about the weather, know that it’s a form of healthy self-expression.
4. Pretend Not to See Someone
You spot an acquaintance across the street and, suddenly, your phone or the storefront window becomes incredibly intriguing. It’s not that you dislike the person; sometimes, you just don’t have the energy for small talk. Whether you’re in a hurry or simply not in the mood to engage, these moments happen to the best of us. It’s a balancing act between maintaining social connections and preserving your mental bandwidth.
This behavior highlights the complexity of modern social interactions. While technology enables constant connectivity, it also leads to moments of social fatigue. Tuning out occasionally can be a form of self-preservation, a way to recharge in a world that demands perpetual engagement. It’s a reminder that selective interactions are as essential to your social life as the interactions themselves.
5. Check Your Ex’s Social Media
In a moment of weakness, you dive into the social media profile of an ex, curious about their current life. It’s not about rekindling old flames but rather satisfying a passing curiosity about their journey post-breakup. You justify it as harmless—just a look—but it can stir emotions you thought were long settled. These digital detours can be both nostalgic and enlightening, offering a glimpse into paths not taken.
Psychologist Dr. Tara Marshall’s research indicates that monitoring an ex’s social media can delay emotional recovery after a breakup. Such behavior might keep past emotions alive, making it harder to move on. However, understanding this can empower you to make conscious choices about how you engage with digital remnants of your past. Recognizing when curiosity veers into counter-productivity can help you maintain emotional health in the digital age.
6. Sing in the Shower
The acoustics in your bathroom turn you into a superstar, belting out tunes as if the world’s best record producer is listening. It’s a uniquely private performance where all inhibitions fade, and you can hit notes you wouldn’t dare attempt elsewhere. Singing in the shower is not just about the music; it’s a moment of pure, uninhibited joy. It’s a testament to the power of music to elevate mood and provide a creative outlet.
Research suggests that singing releases endorphins and oxytocin, hormones that improve mood and foster a sense of well-being. The shower, with its enclosed space and consistent sound of running water, provides a perfect environment for stress relief. This ritual, though private, connects you to a universal appreciation for music’s ability to soothe and invigorate. Embrace your inner diva and let those shower concerts continue.
7. Rehearse Conversations in Your Head
Before an important meeting or a nerve-wracking encounter, you replay potential conversations in your mind, crafting the perfect lines. It’s a mental dress rehearsal, preparing you for different scenarios and responses. While it might seem excessive, this practice can boost confidence and reduce anxiety. It’s a way to gain control over unexpected outcomes, ensuring you’re ready for whatever comes your way.
Dr. Guy Winch, a psychologist and author, notes that visualization techniques can enhance performance by mentally preparing you for future tasks. Rehearsing conversations can serve as a form of cognitive behavior therapy, reducing stress and improving mental clarity. This habit demonstrates your proactive approach to communication, transforming uncertainty into opportunity. So, continue crafting those mental scripts—they’re an essential tool in navigating life’s complexities.
8. Give Yourself Pep Talks
Moments of doubt call for a personal pep talk, where you remind yourself of your strengths and past achievements. These conversations might be internal, or you might verbalize them in front of a mirror. It’s a strategy to combat self-doubt and affirm your capabilities. These moments of self-coaching can turn hesitation into action, empowering you to tackle challenges head-on.
The act of self-encouragement highlights the importance of positive self-talk in personal growth. It’s about building a robust inner dialogue that supports rather than undermines. This practice strengthens resilience, reinforcing your belief in your potential. Whether you’re facing a daunting task or just need a morale boost, these pep talks are a valuable tool in your personal development arsenal.
9. Worry About Dumb Things
You find yourself preoccupied with the future, dwelling on scenarios you have no power to change. Worrying about the uncontrollable is a universal human experience, a reflection of the brain’s tendency to anticipate and plan. While it’s natural to plan for uncertainties, this habit can spiral into unnecessary stress. By acknowledging this tendency, you can work on cultivating mindfulness and focusing on the present.
Cognitive-behavioral strategies emphasize the importance of distinguishing between productive and unproductive worrying. By recognizing when worry is unhelpful, you can redirect your mental energy toward actionable concerns. This approach encourages a shift from anxiety-driven thought patterns to a more grounded, present-centered mindset. Embracing this awareness can lead to a more balanced and peaceful state of mind.
10. Pick Out Flaws in the Mirror
When you look in the mirror, your eyes are instinctively drawn to imperfections others might overlook. Whether it’s a blemish or an asymmetrical feature, these perceived flaws often command your attention. It’s a habit rooted in self-awareness, yet it can also fuel insecurity. Acknowledging this tendency is the first step toward fostering a healthier self-image.
Body positivity advocates encourage focusing on your unique features and the qualities that define you beyond appearance. Shifting attention from flaws to strengths promotes a more balanced view of self-worth. Over time, this practice can reshape your relationship with your reflection, leading to greater self-acceptance. By nurturing a kind inner dialogue, you cultivate a more affirming self-perception.
11. Imagine Winning the Lottery
During idle moments, you indulge in the fantasy of winning a life-changing lottery jackpot. It’s a daydream where financial worries evaporate, replaced by visions of luxury and freedom. These musings are not just about wealth but about the possibilities it unlocks—travel, philanthropy, or simply time. This escape can be a source of joy, a mental playground where aspiration takes flight.
While it’s essential to maintain realistic expectations, these fantasies reflect your values and desires. They offer insights into priorities and what truly matters to you. Understanding this can guide practical goal-setting and financial planning, aligning dreams with achievable steps. Embrace these moments of imagination; they’re a reminder of life’s potential and your own capacity to envision it.
12. Overanalyze Social Interactions
After a conversation, you replay every word, questioning whether you came across as awkward or insincere. This habit of overanalyzing is both a quest for understanding and a source of self-doubt. It stems from a desire to connect genuinely while fearing misinterpretation. Recognizing when this tendency becomes counterproductive can help you cultivate more authentic interactions.
Psychologists suggest focusing on the intent behind your words rather than the minutiae. By prioritizing genuine engagement over perceived perfection, you foster more meaningful connections. This shift in perspective reduces social anxiety and promotes confidence in your communication style. Embrace the imperfections of human interaction—they’re what make connections real and relatable.
13. Daydream About Alternate Realities
In quiet moments, your mind drifts to imagined worlds where you’re living a different life. Whether it’s about a career change, an adventurous lifestyle, or a dream romance, these fantasies can be both an escape and a form of inspiration. They reflect your innermost aspirations and the paths you’re curious to explore. While they might seem fanciful, these daydreams offer valuable insights into your desires and motivations.
Creative thinkers emphasize the importance of imagination in personal and professional growth. By exploring alternate realities, you expand your understanding of what’s possible. These mental journeys can lead to real-world inspiration, guiding you toward new opportunities. So, allow yourself the luxury of daydreams—they’re the seeds of innovation and change.
14. Keep Unworn Clothes “Just in Case”
Your closet holds garments that haven’t seen daylight in years, yet parting with them feels impossible. Whether it’s the “what-if” occasion that might call for that outfit or sentimental attachment, these items linger. This habit reflects the human tendency to hold onto potential and memories, even when practicality is lacking. Understanding this can help you approach wardrobe organization with clarity.
Fashion experts advocate for mindful decluttering, focusing on the joy each item brings. By assessing your wardrobe with intention, you create space for pieces that align with your current identity. This practice leads to a more curated and joyful wardrobe experience. Embrace the liberation of letting go—it makes way for new possibilities and a truer expression of self.
15. Laugh at Your Own Jokes
You crack a joke, often followed by your own laughter, before anyone else joins in. While some might see this as quirky, it’s a sign of self-amusement and confidence. Finding humor in your own wit can uplift your mood and break the ice in social settings. It’s a reminder that laughter is a gift you can give to yourself, enhancing resilience and joy.
Humor researchers suggest that self-directed laughter is a form of positive reinforcement. By appreciating your own humor, you cultivate a lighthearted perspective and resilience. This practice encourages a stronger connection with others, as laughter is naturally contagious. So, continue enjoying your own jokes—they’re a testament to your unique sense of joy and creativity.
