Albert Camus emphasizes that the feeling of despair can be deeply debilitating, but the habit of consistently dwelling in that despair is even more damaging. It suggests that allowing oneself to become accustomed to a state of hopelessness can lead to a loss of agency and a denial of the potential for change. Such a mindset keeps individuals trapped in a cycle of negativity.

In works like "The Stranger" and "The Plague," Camus explores the human condition and the existential struggles individuals face. He argues that it's essential to confront despair without succumbing to it, highlighting that resilience and acceptance can lead to a more authentic existence. The recognition of despair's destructive habit encourages a proactive approach to life's challenges.