Translated by AI

Walking down the street, you'll notice a peculiar phenomenon: people wearing the same style of clothing, watching the same short videos, and even speaking in strikingly similar terms. This inevitably raises curiosity—why has chasing trends gradually become a "norm"? Where has the individual's uniqueness gone in this wave of homogenization?

Following trends is certainly nothing new. From ancient times to today, people have imitated others to gain a sense of security and establish a sense of belonging. However, there are key factors behind why it has become a "daily rule" today.

Firstly, it is the speed of information dissemination. Social media platforms and short videos allow trends to explode almost instantly, with algorithms further fueling the trend. When we are flooded every day with images of "what everyone is doing," following the herd becomes almost a reflex action.

Secondly, trends are essentially a "shared language." Watching the same series and using the same online slang allows you to quickly find resonance in conversations. This immediate connection is an irresistible attraction for modern people.

Lastly, there is the FOMO (Fear of Missing Out) mentality. This is a widespread anxiety: the fear of falling behind, missing out, or losing important social connections or fun. Under the magnifying glass of social media, this anxiety is infinitely amplified because every swipe reminds you that others are experiencing what you've missed.

Some say today's people increasingly look like copy-paste versions, with differences being diluted. This feeling is not entirely wrong, but it does not mean that self-characteristics have been swallowed. More often, people use trends as a base and add their own small details.

A trendy item might present a different style due to your way of matching it; an internet slang might appear unique due to your tone and usage. The relationship between trends and characteristics is not a choice between two, but more like a game: trends provide the stage, while characteristics decide the performance's posture.

However, it cannot be denied that when most people choose the "safe bet that won't go wrong," the truly outstanding few will be more easily remembered. This is why on homogeneous social media platforms, those who ride the trend yet still express their soul are the ones who stand out the most.

If following trends is human nature, then social media is both a magnifying glass and an accelerator.

In the days when the Internet was not developed, the pace of trend renewal was slow, often measured by "seasons." The information gap allowed different regions to retain their styles. Today, things are completely different—a dance, a meme, a song can go viral globally within a week.

The algorithmic mechanism makes trends more concentrated. Platforms always push the content that "most people use," so a few blockbuster hits quickly monopolize the spotlight. Moreover, the life cycle of what's popular becomes very short—a hot meme might be outdated in two weeks. This sort of "quickly obsolescing trend" instead makes people more eager to follow the herd, fearing being the last to know.

If trends are a norm, then the real challenge is: how to maintain oneself among them. Here are a few suggestions:

Establish self-aesthetics and judgment: Before following the herd, ask yourself, does this really fit my preferences? Or am I just afraid of being left behind? When you accumulate enough aesthetic and interest reserves, you won't be completely led by trends.

Regard trends as a base and characteristics as embellishments: You don't have to totally detach from trends, but rather, treat them as a backdrop and add your own details. For instance, pair a trendy outfit with a piece that has a story, or add your twist to a hot meme.

Use social media wisely, rather than being controlled by it: Social media can be a stage for showcasing rather than a source of anxiety. Don't just copy, learn to translate, turning trends into tools for self-expression.

Cultivate a "slow consumption" mindset: Trends come fast and go fast, but that doesn't mean we should be led along. "Slow consumption" emphasizes investing in long-term values, such as a book you'll read repeatedly, a coat that will last ten years, or an interest that can accompany you for a long time. When you focus your energy on these "timeless things," short-term trends no longer exert such pressure. You may even find that what truly leaves a lasting impression are those aesthetics and habits that settle over time.

Embrace "non-conformity": In an era of homogenization, differences are a strength. Many cultural phenomena that later became trends initially came from those who were considered "different." Embracing non-conformity doesn't mean intentionally going against the tide but staying true to your own rhythm and preferences. When everyone else is doing the same dance, saying the same meme, your "difference" will become the clearest symbol and could be the start of the next wave of trends.

Chasing trends? Maintaining oneself?

There's nothing wrong with chasing trends in itself. It is a social language, a ticket to safety, and a quick way to integrate. But within these rules, the real challenge is: Can we keep our voice while following? In this algorithm-driven era, what might be truly worth practicing is not entirely rejecting trends but learning to leave a clear personal mark within the trend's framework. Because, ultimately, what gets remembered is not how many trends you followed, but that unique quality.