Is the devil really in the details, or is that just mumbo-jumbo? Well, psychologists would argue for the validity of that statement. Why? Because everything from how you organize your desk to which foot you slip into your pants first might actually be speaking volumes about your mindset and personality!
According to research by Dr. Wendy Wood, a professor of psychology and the author of Good Habits, Bad Habits, nearly 40% of our daily actions are habits. This means that your psychology is quietly showing up in ways you’ve never even considered! Even your handwriting or texting style might be sending subtle signals to those paying attention.
This article will discuss 10 surprisingly small habits that expose deep truths about your psychology. It’s going to be equal parts fascinating and slightly unsettling (in a good way). Ready? Let’s get going!
1. Nervous Habits Like Nail Biting and Foot Tapping
Ever caught yourself biting your fingernails, tapping your foot, or twirling your hair? Psychologists call these otherwise insignificant actions Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors (BFRBs), and they agree that these tics reveal a thing or two about us!
For starters, research has shown that people develop these idiosyncrasies as a coping mechanism, usually when they experience boredom, frustration, or anxiety.
Consequently, these small habits develop into psychological “tells” that reveal information about a person’s emotional regulation, stress levels, and coping mechanisms.
2. Bed Making and Workspace Organization
Do you make your bed, or do you just let it be? Well, as it turns out, whether or not you make your bed might say more about your personality than your housekeeping skills. Those who make their beds reveal more self-discipline and a belief in sticking to routine.
Closely tied to that is how you organize your workspace. However, an excess on either end can raise red flags. If you obsess over tidiness, it could hint at perfectionist tendencies, which can be a major problem, especially if you’re uncomfortable with things being out of place. On the flip side, an excessively disorganized workspace may suggest mental exhaustion, stress, or emotional burnout.
3. Social Media Habits
Yes, even your social media habits can tell a bit about you. When scrolling through social media, if you’re constantly looking at likes, it may mean that you’re seeking external validation. If you’re just doomscrolling (consuming negative news or content without pause), that could be anxiety showing up. Either way, your scrolling habits can reveal more about your personality than you think.
4. How You Apologize (Or Don’t)
Ever received that “apology” that started with “Sorry you feel this way?” Who hasn’t, right? Perhaps you have apologized that way too. How you apologize (or choose not to) can speak volumes about your emotional intelligence and overall psychology.
If you’re quick to offer sincere apologies when wrong, this may indicate that you have a strong emotional intelligence, recognize when you’re wrong, and are eager to make amends. If, on the other hand, you offer insincere apologies, or refuse to apologize altogether, then it might be time for a change in mindset, as this may portray a conceited attitude.
Interestingly, people who say “sorry” excessively—even for things that aren’t their fault—often struggle with low self-esteem, anxiety, or a deep-rooted need to avoid conflict and gain approval.
5. Your Eating Habits
Who would have thought that the way you eat can also reveal a thing or two about you? Well, it does, according to psychologists. Studies have shown that if you eat slowly, you’re likely to be calm and composed. If, on the other hand, you gobble your meals very quickly, you’re likely adventurous, goal-oriented, or a tad bit hot-headed. In some cases, quick eating can also signal anxiety or a tendency to multitask.
6. Handwriting and Punctuation
Although you may not think much of it, your handwriting says a lot about you. If you write with bigger letters, it might mean that you’re an extrovert, confident, or crave quite a bit of attention. Smaller letters, on the other hand, may suggest introversion or even shyness.
Additionally, your punctuation can give away subtle cues about your personality. If you prefer to punctuate minimally, it might indicate that you have a reserved personality and are looking for casual and straightforward communication. Excessive punctuation, on the other hand, can indicate expressiveness or a heightened concern for how messages are perceived.
7. Shopping Habits
Are you a list maker or an impulse buyer? Although financial and economic gurus would swear by the benefits of making lists, not everyone can do that (well, at least not without some reconditioning). So, if by nature, you prefer to organize and prioritize your spending, it may suggest that you are calm and organized. If you’re on the other end, it doesn’t mean you’re undisciplined. On the bright side, it could actually mean that you are a go-with-the-flow kind of person and have no desire for budgeting.
8. How You Walk (Carriage)
How you walk is a quick and apt indicator of your overall psyche. A confident, energetic stride often signals self-assurance and even personal pride. A lethargic gait might mean you’re just tired, but then, if it is habitual, it might suggest a struggle with low self-esteem. Research has even shown that people with depressive tendencies often exhibit slower walking speeds, slouched postures, and less arm movement.
9. Eye Contact During Conversations
“The eye is the window to the soul,” right? This is especially true in psychology. Your ability to keep eye contact says a lot about you!
If you can maintain comfortable and continuous eye contact, you will give off the vibe that you’re confident and trustworthy. On the other hand, if you can’t look someone in the eye, it might mean that you’re struggling with low self-esteem, an inferiority complex, or the fear of being judged, unless you’re from a culture where eye contact is discouraged. Too much eye contact can be seen as aggressive, disrespectful, or even downright creepy.
10. Texting Style
Are you a fast responder or a ghoster? Do you respond with shorter or longer messages? If you’re a quick responder, this could mean that you’re highly engaged, or maybe you’re seeking validation.
However, if you respond more slowly, it possibly suggests a desire to dictate the pace of a relationship or establish boundaries. Added to this, even your use of emojis says a lot about you. Overuse may indicate an excessively emotional or expressive person. Occasional use can mean a more logical and unexpressive personality.
You wouldn’t have guessed that these 10 small habits expose big truths about your psychology now, would you? While many reflect strengths, some of them highlight areas for growth and self-improvement. For example, by learning to say sorry and making your bed in the morning, you can make noticeable improvements to your life!
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