As many of you know, trends on TikTok have overwhelmed the internet time and time again. From dances to skits, the more popular one becomes, the more heavily it’s spread through feeds across the world. One trend in particular that has and continues to establish dominance is the “That Girl” trend. Raking in over one billion views, this trend is centered around girls who prioritize “getting their lives together”, whatever that may mean for them individually. Most of the videos are pretty similar, emphasizing waking up early, working out, eating healthy, and most of all, being productive. The majority of these styles of videos are composed of aesthetically pleasing montages with music in the background, some more relaxing and slow paced and some quick-tempoed with an upbeat nature. While it is entertaining and oftentimes inspiring to see young women strive towards achieving their goals in this way, there can be negative effects involved.
On TikTok it is not rare for people to post their everyday routines, we see it all the time and it’s definitely one of my favorite kinds of videos. We’re able to have a sort of sneak peek into the life of the creator and I love that. The problem comes when people view these perfectly crafted scene cuts and place unrealistic expectations on themselves as a result. While it is not the responsibility of the creator to control consumers’ thoughts and emotions, there is much to say about how one could digest the “That Girl” lifestyle.
Seeing so many girls model the same type of living in the same way on a daily basis could lead one to believe that they should then move to form the same habits. The name of the trend itself stems from following certain steps in order to become a better version of yourself. When one sees that thousands of other people are partaking in certain steps more than others, it could lead one to believe that they are only “That Girl” if they partake in those same activities.
While it is easy to believe that one would not compare themselves to someone else’s highlight reel, it is far easier said than done! It’s easy to feel the need to “get your life together” after seeing so many users do the same and in such a seemingly perfect way. The initial purpose of the trend was to appreciate the will we all have to become the best we can be, but on our own terms. To not stray from that intention, here are a few ways you can stay grounded and become “That Girl” but in a genuine way.
- Prioritize your mental health: This is an aspect of self care that is not often spoken about, but definitely the most important. It requires putting your peace first. Whether this means saying no to plans you’ve made with friends or resting your body after a tough week of classes, listening to how you feel inside and out is key in determining if something is working in favor of or against your wellbeing. Protect your energy!
- Move your body at your own pace: Don’t force yourself to adhere to workout routines that you don’t enjoy or wake up at the crack of dawn if that’s not your vibe. Moving your body could mean dancing in your living room or starting a mindful yoga practice in the mornings, it doesn’t have to be anything strenuous. Implementing physical activity even if just for a few minutes a day can make all the difference in how you feel.
- Explore your passions: Take time to figure out what you’re really into. Dive into what you love doing and attempt to integrate it into your everyday experiences. Trying new things also allows you to naturally consider other perspectives you may not have recognized before!
- Embrace authenticity: Be true to yourself forever and always. There is nothing wrong with being your own person. Your quirks are what makes you unique from everyone else so accept and appreciate them! No one is like you, and that is your power.
While trends on social media are fun to take part in and view for pleasure, it is important to monitor how you react to them. Keeping your health in check should always be your number one priority. Being “That Girl” is not about subscribing to unrealistic health and beauty standards, but about letting your light shine through in your own way. Working towards your higher self is a journey that only you can take, so make sure the the trip is a positive one.