It's not uncommon to find people walking around with all that glitters may not always glitter on the outside. In fact, I've never met someone who doesn't like the shine of some shiny object. Some people have an addiction to the shine. They find it difficult to look away from a mirror, and they certainly seem to be attracted to glossy models and TV starlets. And, let's face it, who isn't?
However, there's something about shiny objects that makes us want them more. We want them to shine because they sparkle. If we can't have what we want, then we feel deprived. Unfortunately, that often means that we're not happy with the situation and that glitters become a substitute for happiness. In other words, shiny things are often used as an excuse for not being content.
But, what does glitters really do? To most of us, it's either a synonym for happiness or a substitute for love. At its most basic level, it's a reaction to negative stimuli. Glitter can often evoke feelings of anxiety, embarrassment or even shame. In those cases, the substance is typically not sugar or salt but something more organic and satisfying. But, that doesn't mean that glitters may not always glitter.
In fact, many psychologists believe that glitters have a therapeutic function. That's because they stimulate the part of the brain associated with happiness. Glitter seems to appeal to the part of the brain associated with rewarding and enjoyable experiences - one of the known benefits of regular "rewarding" behaviours such as playing games, eating chocolate or going to the gym.
The thing to remember is that, whatever it is that glitters, it isn't always positive. For example, the shiny object that you may now hold in your hand may be filled with lead, mercury or other harmful chemicals. So, it's best to stay away from these types of things. On the other hand, if you do use them, you're likely to be happier in the long run. After all, you'll avoid the adverse effects of lead, mercury and other toxic chemicals.
The second misconception is that glitters can make you feel glamorous and special. This is probably the least true of all the myths about glitters. When you're surrounded by a sparkling surface, it doesn't automatically mean you're feeling superior. Even in situations when there are no shiny objects around, a calm, peaceful environment can be as refreshing as the surface you're sitting on. In fact, one of the common benefits of peace is that it can actually brighten up the moods of others. So, while there's nothing glamorous or special about glitter, it can actually heighten your moods if it's used correctly.