We’ve all had those moments where something or someone captures our attention a little too much.
Source: Unsplash
It’s fun to get excited about new things, but sometimes that excitement can tip into low-key obsession territory. If you’re wondering whether you’ve crossed the line from healthy interest to full-blown fixation, here are a few signs to watch out for—and some tips for chilling out if you have.
1. Your phone is an extension of your hand.
Source: Unsplash It’s not just about checking social media for updates on your crush or binge-watching their favourite show. You find yourself scrolling through old photos, re-reading texts, or even stalking their friends’ profiles. If you can’t seem to put your phone down, it might be time for a digital detox. Set aside specific times to check your phone, and try to engage in activities that don’t involve screens. It could be as simple as reading a book, going for a walk, or spending time with friends in person.
2. You can’t stop talking about it.
Whether it’s your new favourite band, a celebrity crush, or that new hobby you picked up, you find yourself bringing it up in every conversation. Your friends might start rolling their eyes or changing the subject, but you can’t help yourself. To avoid becoming a one-trick pony, try to diversify your interests. Pick up a new hobby, read a book on a different topic, or simply make an effort to ask people about their lives and passions.
3. You’re constantly daydreaming.
Source: Unsplash Instead of focusing on your work, your studies, or even your conversations, your mind keeps wandering back to your object of obsession. You replay scenarios in your head, imagine future interactions, or simply get lost in a fantasy world. While daydreaming can be fun, it shouldn’t interfere with your daily life. Try to practice mindfulness techniques, such as meditation or deep breathing exercises, to bring your attention back to the present moment.
4. You feel a pang of jealousy.
Source: Unsplash Seeing your crush talking to someone else, hearing about your friend’s success in your shared hobby, or even watching someone else enjoy the thing you’re obsessed with can trigger feelings of jealousy and insecurity. This is a sign that you might be placing too much importance on this one thing in your life. Remember, there’s enough success, love, and enjoyment to go around. Focus on your own journey and celebrate other people’s wins.
5. Your mood depends on it.
Source: Unsplash If a positive interaction or update about your obsession makes your day, while a negative one sends you into a tailspin, it’s a sign that you’re emotionally invested in a way that’s not healthy. Your happiness shouldn’t hinge on something outside of your control. Make an effort to cultivate other sources of joy and fulfilment in your life, whether it’s spending time with loved ones, pursuing your own passions, or simply taking care of yourself.
6. You’re neglecting other areas of your life.
Your obsession has become so all-consuming that you’re starting to neglect your responsibilities, relationships, or even your basic needs. You might be skipping meals, staying up late to indulge in your obsession, or cancelling plans with friends. This is a major red flag that you need to step back and reassess your priorities. Remember, a balanced life is a happy life.
7. You rationalize your behaviour.
Source: Unsplash You might tell yourself that your obsession is harmless, that you’re just passionate, or that you’ll stop soon. However, deep down, you know that you’re struggling to control your thoughts and behaviours. If you find yourself making excuses or justifying your actions, it’s time to be honest with yourself and ask for a bit of support if needed.
8. It’s all you think about.
Source: Unsplash Whether you’re awake or asleep, your thoughts constantly revolve around your obsession. You dream about it, plan your day around it, and even find yourself talking about it in your sleep. This level of preoccupation can be exhausting and prevent you from focusing on other important things in your life. To break the cycle, try to set aside specific times to indulge in your obsession, and make a conscious effort to think about other things during the rest of your day.
9. You compare yourself to other people.
You constantly measure yourself against people who share your obsession, feeling inadequate if you don’t measure up to their level of knowledge, skill, or dedication. This comparison game can lead to unhealthy competition, anxiety, and even depression. Instead of focusing on how you stack up against other people, focus on your own progress and enjoyment. Remember, everyone starts somewhere, and the journey is just as important as the destination.
10. You feel a sense of ownership.
You might believe that you have a special connection to your object of obsession, or that you understand it better than anyone else. You get possessive over your knowledge, your opinions, or even your access to the thing you’re obsessed with. This sense of ownership can lead to conflict with people who share your interest and can isolate you from the community you’re trying to be a part of. Remind yourself that everyone is entitled to their own opinions and experiences, and that sharing your passion with people can be a rewarding way to connect.
11. You neglect your own needs.
You might skip meals, sleep less, or forgo other important activities to spend more time indulging in your obsession. You might even start to neglect your personal hygiene or appearance. This neglect can have serious consequences for your physical and mental health. Make sure you’re taking care of yourself by eating nutritious meals, getting enough sleep, exercising regularly, and engaging in activities that bring you joy and relaxation.
12. You experience withdrawal symptoms.
Source: Unsplash If you have to step away from your obsession for a period of time, you might experience anxiety, irritability, or even physical symptoms like headaches or stomachaches. This is a sign that your obsession has become a dependency, and you need to find healthier ways to cope with stress and boredom. Try to fill your time with other activities that you enjoy, such as spending time with friends, reading a book, or going for a walk.
13. You isolate yourself.
Source: Unsplash You might start to avoid social situations or withdraw from friends and family to spend more time on your obsession. This isolation can lead to loneliness, depression, and a loss of perspective. Make an effort to maintain your social connections and engage in activities that bring you together with people. Even if you don’t share your obsession with them, spending time with loved ones can help you stay grounded and connected to the real world.
14. You experience financial strain.
Source: Unsplash Your obsession might be costing you money, whether it’s buying merchandise, attending events, or subscribing to services. If you’re struggling to pay your bills or are going into debt because of your obsession, it’s time to take a step back and reassess your spending habits. Set a budget for your hobby and stick to it. You can also try to find free or low-cost ways to enjoy your obsession, such as borrowing books from the library, watching videos online, or attending free events.
15. It affects your work or studies.
Source: Unsplash If your obsession is interfering with your ability to focus on your work or studies, it’s a serious problem. You might find yourself daydreaming during class, missing deadlines at work, or struggling to concentrate on tasks. This can have a negative impact on your grades, your job performance, and even your career prospects. If you’re struggling to balance your obsession with your responsibilities, talk to a trusted friend, family member, or therapist for support.
