I’m curious if anyone else finds coloring books actually stress-inducing. Very rarely do I actually end up feeling calm by the time I finish a coloring page. I usually get overwhelmed and give up 1/3 of the way through coloring. Does anyone else feel this way?
Yes, because I have to get it absolutely perfect or it won't be good enough. Or what if someone makes fun of the hard work I've done. Or I'm putting so much extra work into this one section of this one part of the book then give up on the rest of it because it takes too much of myself to do each page. Anyone feel that way? Or just me...😬
@Dani=elle I definitely resonate with this. Especially putting a lot of effort into one section and then giving up because it was exhausting!
@Dani=elle Ahh, You're not alone! Each and every time I feel the same way. It takes every bit of my confidence to see my hard work and good intentions are not paying off. Worst yet, the fear of others making fun of my hard work makes me feel like a stupid. In each of these social situations, I wear a mask, acting as if I hate the activity so that's why I can't do it faster.
@TinyDragon It can definitely be very humbling and embarrassing at times. I have to remind myself that it doesn’t define who I am or my worth. It’s easier said than done!
@katemason So trueee! Learning to treat myself with kindness and compassion. As you said, it's easier said than done. Appreciate for your kind words 🥹
If it’s not one that I really like then yes, I just find it annoying lol. Also sometimes the hand pain really makes me annoyed. I prefer blank notebooks and just doing random doodles or swirls
@Gloriaxoxo Yes, “annoying” is definitely the word for it! I also enjoy doing random doodles and coloring those in rather than a traditional coloring book.
It helps to stop thinking, so yes it helps.
@Anonymous I’m so glad it helps you! It’s so nice when you can find an activity that distracts or calms your mind.
Yes! Same with most “cozy” games. I think a lot of it comes from optimization or symmetry OCD
@kaelooos I’ve never heard of the term “symmetry OCD” but that makes so much sense! A lot of my OCD has to do with symmetry so that’s encouraging that there’s an actual term for it!
Yes, I feel the same way too. In my mind, Coloring seems to be calm. I do like to do things which are supposed to be calming and relaxing - but each time I end up finding myself in distress halfway through the process. It makes me feel sad that I can't even do small things in life that others enjoy. Now that I know about my OCD part - I know the distress is stemming from perfectionism and symmetry. These types prevent me from being free flowing and makes me think through each step.
@Anonymous I understand the feeling of sadness when something that’s supposed to make you calm does the opposite. I have learned that it’s okay to have a different experience, you’re not alone in that! I’m glad you’ve been able to learn more about your OCD!
@katemason I feel better to realize that I'm not alone. Thanks for your affirmation and post ♥️
Sometimes I like the ones that are more simple. The “adult” ones with intricate designs can stress me out. Maybe if you want to color you can print out pages ? No pressure of a full book
@Punkinpie Ooh yes, the simpler ones are more enjoyable for me as well. The intricate designs are too much!
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