[ARTS OPINION] “That girl” trend isn’t all that

Fair Use: TikTok

TRENDING. The “that girl” craze can be found all over apps like TikTok and Instagram, spreading its negative influence to millions of viewers.

TikTok has become one of the most influential social media apps of this day and age, so it makes sense that trends are able to reach many people in such a short period of time. Most recently grabbing the attention of TikTok users is the “that girl” craze. Though it seems to be promoting a healthy lifestyle at first glance, digging deeper reveals a problematic message.

Those who consider themselves to be “that girl” wake up early to work out while wearing matching athletic sets, drink green juice or smoothies, and write in a journal daily. These habits are actually great for both mental and physical health. According to Duke University, “The process of writing down insights is also a way of tapping one’s consciousness. That is why [journaling] works, whether you are suffering from a chronic problem, an acute event, or trying to maintain good health.” Getting a serving of fruits or vegetables through a beverage can be favorable as well, as these foods help with blood pressure, vision, gastrointestinal health, and can even protect against cancer. Overall, the health benefits of this lifestyle are quite intriguing.

However, this trend creates a seemingly perfect image of what wellness should look like, with little room for flexibility. Health is extremely individual—what works for one person might not work for another. Talking with medical professionals about different habits is a much better choice than changing behaviors based on a video posted online. Other recent trends have been similar in this way, such as “what I eat in a day” videos, which may promote certain diets or foods that ultimately aren’t right for everyone and their bodies.

Becoming “that girl” requires altering one’s life to match others, which can cause people to lose the unique aspects of themselves. “Rebranding” is one term for it, and the truth is, humans aren’t meant to be rebranded. The distinct qualities that each person has are special and should be embraced and celebrated, rather than changed and conformed.

Like many fads, this one is heavily focused on an unachievable mold that everyone should try to fit. Many of the women appearing in the videos are slender, with clear, glowing skin. This image creates a standard that can make other women and younger girls feel as though they are not enough because they don’t look like “that girl.” In addition to the physical aspects, these videos are simply highlight reels filled with all the best moments, rather than showing the worst. In reality, not every day is a dream, and everybody has times when they feel upset or unmotivated.

Instead of falling into the trap of becoming “that girl,” consume content on social media that praises originality and health tailored to an individual’s needs. Promote positivity and be sure to care for mental health as well as physical health. And most importantly, remember that each and every person is one-of-a-kind and perfect in their own way.