Note: This piece is a staff editorial, which is an opinion article meant to reflect the opinions of the Drops of Ink staff. Because of this, the author’s name does not appear alongside the story, as the opinions shared in here are based on class discussions about the topic among the 20 DOI staff members. The staff is composed of students of all grades from a variety of backgrounds and experiences; therefore, the editorial speaks to the publication’s view on a subject and is not representative of each staff member’s exact view on the issue at hand. 

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You’ve probably heard the term ‘romanticizing your life’ on social media before. “Life lately” photo dumps, aesthetic videos synced to jazzy songs or travel vlogs on business class flights may be the first things that jump into your head. But, in fact, those aren’t all that you can romanticize. 

In reality, the whole idea can mean different things to different people and the things that people romanticize can vary vastly from one another.

Often, social media sets an aesthetic or an expectation of an idea. There is a misconception that if you can’t follow that exactly, you may feel as if you can’t participate in the trend of romanticizing your life. The fact is, you don’t even need social media to do it. You just need the right mindset. 

Romanticizing your life doesn’t have to be showing off your wallet by posting videos from your vacation or having a fancy workout plan and personal trainer. It can be doing the things that make you… you.

It isn’t a trend either. It’s a way of life, and isn’t something you are doing for other people. It is solely for yourself and your own good.

Try doing what makes you happy and making sure that you’re content with your own life, rather than doing what other people want you to do.

Or try seeking out small moments where you take a pause and realize what’s happening is maybe more special or significant. Appreciate the special moments that happen on a day to day basis because it’s easy to go through life and not appreciate the moments most savoring. From that pretty sunset to a funny moment with friends, it can be easy to let these moments pass you by.

You aren’t truly appreciating your life if you go through it without paying attention to the small, special commodities. This is an essential part of this phenomenon.

In fact, for many people, the whole idea emerged in the summer of 2021 as a result of the coronavirus lockdown. During the lockdown and eSchool, it was hard to find the positives in a bad situation. With hope for a better summer, people wanted to make the most out of the short time because of constraints in summer 2020.

Romanticizing your life is heavily tied to self expression. Let go of the opinions of your peers, people on social media and even the random people at a coffee shop.

One of the main struggles that people face when romanticizing their lives is learning to express themselves and learning to love themselves due to the fact that they are so heavily interconnected.

Finding the time to stop and breathe can be hard in the hustle and bustle of our busy lives. It can be hard to find the good in situations when you are struggling with valuing yourself. Taking the time to romanticize your life can be tricky, especially in a busy schedule. 

However, it isn’t always the best way to carry out some situations. It is important to be realistic with yourself and accept that all situations can’t be romanticized. These moments are important.

Finding the balance between making the best of bad situations and acknowledging unromantic situations is important for someone who is romanticizing their life.

But remember, you don’t have to be perfect. You don’t have to always romanticize your life. Just do what makes you happy. Live your best life. Let other people’s opinions go. Make the most of the little things.

It is easier said than done, but strive to be the best version of yourself. You will be thankful in the long run.