When I relocated from Philadelphia, where all four seasons are experienced, to Los Angeles in 2017, I was captivated by the perpetual sunshine at first. However, after about a year, I began to miss those cold, rainy days when I could relax indoors with a good book or movie marathon. I longed for an excuse to be lazy, but I felt guilty because the weather in Los Angeles was always pleasant. Thus, I motivated myself to go out daily for hikes, bike rides, or outdoor dining to make the most of it.
Looking back, I realize I was struggling with what Melissa Hummelt, a therapist and senior clinical operations manager at BetterHelp, calls “sunshine guilt” – the regret or pressure felt when staying inside on a beautiful day. Hummelt explained that while this feeling is common, it is unwarranted. She emphasized that there is no right or wrong way to enjoy a lovely day and no specific definition of how one should spend it.
Sunshine guilt typically manifests as a persistent voice in your head urging you to go outside, even when you feel the need to rest or relax, according to Claudia Giolitti-Wright, founder of Psychotherapy for Young Women in New York City. This guilt can lead to feelings of wasting the day or missing out on the good weather, causing irritability and FOMO when seeing others enjoy the outdoors.
The root of sunshine guilt lies in productivity culture and perfectionism, as explained by Giolitti-Wright. Society often values action over rest and associates being outdoors with health and productivity, creating pressure to engage in outdoor activities even when you prefer to stay indoors. To combat this guilt, it is essential to acknowledge and label your feelings, reflect on the source of your guilt, and challenge any unrealistic expectations placed on you. Remember, there is no right or wrong way to spend a beautiful day, and taking time for yourself is equally important.
In a message from Giolitti-Wright, it is emphasized that self-awareness can facilitate behavioral changes. “Once you pinpoint the source of your guilt, you can assess whether it still serves you or if it’s time to release it and adopt a new belief,” stated Giolitti-Wright. It’s important to grant yourself permission to take a break and recognize that your value is not solely based on productivity and performance. “Remember, valuing yourself also involves allowing time to rest and prioritize self-care,” Giolitti-Wright added. Challenge the idea that staying indoors is unproductive. Instead of thinking “I wasted the day,” shift your mindset to “Rest is productive.” This change can help alleviate any guilt and affirm that your decisions are meaningful and valid, according to Hummelt. Additionally, reconsider what it means to enjoy the weather. It doesn’t always have to involve outdoor activities like hiking or biking. Simply opening the windows, sitting on your doorstep, or having your morning coffee by a sunny window can be equally enjoyable, recommended Giolitti-Wright. By viewing outdoor time as flexible and instinctual rather than a task, you can redefine your approach to relaxation.
