Quirky and extreme trends leave many people rolling their eyes, while others see them as exciting opportunities to have fun. These trends are so divisive – you’ll either love them or hate them. Check out the new crazes that everyone’s talking about.
TikTok Dancing
TikTok dances have taken the world by storm, with users learning complex choreography to share online. These routines often go viral, pushing participants to fame. Yet, many find the idea of filming and sharing dance moves publicly to be out of their comfort zone.
Extreme Minimalism
The trend of living with the bare minimum has gained followers who swear by its clarity and simplicity. This lifestyle involves having fewer than 100 personal items, sometimes even forgoing home ownership. To many, though, the thought of giving up so many possessions is unimaginable.
Microdosing
Microdosing psychedelics, particularly LSD or psilocybin, is reported by some to boost creativity and emotional well-being. This practice involves taking very small doses that don’t induce full-blown hallucinations. However, the idea of using any form of drug in daily life is a non-starter for many.
Digital Detox Retreats
As people look to escape their technology-saturated environments, digital detox retreats have become a refuge for disconnecting from the digital world. Participants spend days or weeks without any gadgets, which some praise as profoundly liberating. Others cannot fathom spending even an hour without their phones or social media.
Eating Insects
With sustainability in mind, eating insects is touted as an eco-friendly protein alternative. In many cultures, insects are a staple, offering a crunchy snack or meal ingredient. But for some, the thought of crunching on crickets or mealworms is a definite culinary line they aren’t willing to cross.
Cryptocurrency Investments
Bitcoin and Ethereum represent a cutting-edge investment trend embraced by many as the future of finance. Despite the potential for high returns, the volatile nature and complexity of cryptocurrencies deter many from ever investing.
Virtual Reality Socializing
Virtual reality platforms allow users to interact in a fully digital environment, attend concerts, meet in cafes, and more. This form of socializing is becoming increasingly popular, especially among gamers and tech enthusiasts. Yet, many people find the idea of replacing real human interaction with VR versions unsettling and impersonal.
Zero Waste Lifestyle
The zero-waste movement to eliminate trash production entirely through sustainable living practices involves meticulous recycling, composting, and avoiding plastic completely. While the environmental benefits are clear, the extent of commitment required makes many hesitant to even attempt it.
Cold Showers
Taking cold showers daily is a trend popularized for its supposed health benefits, including improved circulation and mental resilience. This practice is often part of a broader lifestyle of embracing discomfort for growth. Despite these benefits, the majority cannot imagine starting their day with anything but a warm shower.
Polyphasic Sleep
Polyphasic sleep, which involves multiple short periods of sleep in a 24-hour period instead of one long stretch, is practiced by some for increased productivity. Proponents claim it gives them more waking hours. However, others view disrupting natural sleep patterns as a recipe for health problems.
Veganism
Embracing a vegan lifestyle involves abstaining from all animal products for ethical, environmental, or health reasons. While it’s becoming more mainstream, the idea of giving up all meat, dairy, and other animal-derived substances is still extreme for many.
Sensory Deprivation Tanks
Floating in a sensory deprivation tank for an hour or more allows for deep meditation. For some, however, the thought of complete sensory deprivation is anxiety-inducing rather than relaxing.
Living in Tiny Houses
The tiny house movement advocates living in extremely small homes, often on wheels, to simplify life and reduce costs. These homes are typically less than 400 square feet and require significant downsizing. While appealing to some, others see it as too cramped and impractical.
Social Media Fame
Aspiring to become famous via social media platforms is a common goal among the younger generations. This involves sharing aspects of one’s life frequently and curating an online persona. Many, however, find the pursuit of online fame through constant self-promotion unappealing.
Drone Racing
Drone racing has emerged as a thrilling sport where participants fly high-speed drones through various courses. It combines technology with high adrenaline competition. Despite its excitement, many cannot imagine participating.
Sologamy
Marrying oneself, known as sologamy, is seen as an act of self-love and affirmation. Participants hold actual wedding ceremonies to commit to themselves. This concept, while empowering to some, is viewed by many as nonsensical and self-indulgent.
Extreme Couponing
Extreme couponing involves collecting numerous coupons and promotional deals to save vast amounts of money on groceries and other goods. This can be very time-consuming and requires a lot of planning and strategy.
Homeschooling
Choosing to homeschool children is a trend growing in popularity as parents seek more control over their children’s education and environment. For many, the idea of taking full responsibility for a child’s education is daunting and impractical.
Beard Competitions
Participating in beard competitions, where individuals showcase elaborately styled beards, is a niche but growing trend. Most find the idea of dedicating significant time and resources to facial hair styling far too eccentric.
Adult Coloring Books
Adult coloring books have been popularized as a means of relaxation and creativity. They are filled with intricate designs that require hours of coloring. While therapeutic for some, others cannot see the appeal in returning to what they consider a childish activity.
Public Speaking Clubs
Joining clubs like Toastmasters to improve public speaking skills is beneficial for personal and professional development. Members engage in regular meetings to practice speaking and leadership. However, the thought of regularly speaking in front of peers is a nightmare scenario for many.
Minimalist Footwear
Minimalist footwear, like barefoot running shoes, is designed to mimic the natural biomechanics of walking or running barefoot. These shoes are praised for their health benefits and natural feel. Yet, many are skeptical about their effectiveness and prefer traditional cushioned footwear.
Foraging
Foraging for wild food is a way to connect with nature and source fresh, local produce. This includes gathering herbs, berries, and mushrooms from the wild. Despite its appeal to natural food enthusiasts, many are wary of the risks involved in identifying safe, edible plants.
