“Ugh, I can’t believe this happened to me, must be the theorythatexplainseverything.” Stop it. We mean it this time. Yes, our social media curates the perfect theory that perfectly describes our situation, or did you only hear a few snippets that are kinda related to you? The junior year theory, the olive theory, butterfly theory, the list goes on and on.
It’s Not a Theory, It’s Just You
Life throws its curveballs that disrupt the balance in our lives but constantly blaming it on the external world does not solve our problems. Applying a new, obscure theory only puts a bandaid on a bigger issue– how you will process and heal going forward. When hit with difficult circumstances such as a break-up, losing your job or struggling in school, chances are we can play a factor into our own dismay. It’s a harsh truth that VALLEY barely wants to admit, but being transparent with yourself is a great first step to healing. Turn off Tik Tok for a second and let yourself feel.
Why is this happening? How can I take my control back? What can I learn from this?
Maybe it’s the reality check we need once in a while, rather than the random theory to soothe the wound. Life is not always sunshine and rainbows, but the chaos and darkness allows us to find the light again. Grind in silence. Let yourself be sad, angry and confused about the world around you, but don’t curse at it.
Find Peace in Meaning
Gen Z has been primed to overanalyze the world and our lives as our screens shine on our faces until dawn with theories, other people’s stories and comments validating every word. Although we create connections with strangers across the world, we can lose ourselves when attaching too hard to someone else’s story. You are who you are for a reason, let’s explore it without the white noise buzzing from our phones.
There’s truth and understanding to hardships, but it is our duty to do the soul searching and rise above it. Instead of overcomplicating a conversation or interpreting someone else’s behavior at a different angle, accept how it happened in the first place. Humans are a paradox of complex thoughts and simple actions. When you take a step back, observe past situations exactly how it happened, you’ll find the clarity you long for, or at least peace in knowing you have healed since that moment in time.
VALLEY understands the world is not black and white and can make our heads spin different theories to grasp what is going on, but do not overthink it. Shit happens, unfortunately. But it is what we do for ourselves to overcome the shitty parts in life that elevates our personal growth. It’s not always a theory. It’s just the way the world goes sometimes.
Do you love learning about new theories? Let us know @VALLEYmag on X!
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