Why You Are Alone and Sad This Brat Summer

Charli XCX's 'brat summer' was supposed to be the highlight of 2024. It promised an energy of being your own brat and truly living life to the fullest. But here I am, sitting on this beach by myself, wondering: am I really living a true brat summer?

The Brat Summer Phenomenon

When Charli XCX declared this the summer of the brat, it felt like a call to arms. Suddenly, social media was ablaze with people embracing their inner brat, living unapologetically, and seemingly having the time of their lives. The internet felt ALIVE with a new kind of energy.

The Reality Check

But as I scroll through endless posts of people partying, traveling, and living their best brat lives, I can't help but feel a disconnect. Here I am, eating my own food by myself, feeling more lonely than ever. The contrast between the online brat summer and my reality is stark and, frankly, depressing.

The Pressure to Be a Brat

There's an immense pressure to participate in brat summer. To show the world that you're living life on your own terms, consequences be damned. But what if your reality doesn't match up to this ideal? What if being a 'brat' doesn't come naturally to you?

The Stats Dont Lie

Excessive use of social networking sites (SNS), especially during summer, can lead to a significant decrease in psychological well-being. This includes increased feelings of loneliness, anxiety, and depression, primarily due to unfavorable social comparisons. During the summer, when others appear to be having more fun, these effects can be particularly pronounced, leading to a heightened sense of dissatisfaction and stress. Citation: Lee, J. K. (2020). The effects of social comparison orientation on psychological well-being in social networking sites: Serial mediation of perceived social support and self-esteem. Current Psychology. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12144-020-01114-3

The Loneliness Paradox

Ironically, in a summer that's all about connection, rebellion, and living life to the fullest, many of us are feeling more isolated than ever. The fear of missing out (FOMO) is real, and it's amplified by the constant stream of 'brat summer' content we're exposed to.

Redefining Your Brat Summer

Perhaps it's time to redefine what a 'brat summer' means to you. Maybe it's not about wild parties and reckless behavior. Maybe it's about small acts of self-care, setting boundaries, or pursuing a passion project. Your brat summer doesn't have to look like anyone else's.

How Lotus Can Help

This is where Lotus comes in. We understand the complexities of navigating trends like 'brat summer' while staying true to yourself. Lotus offers:

• Personalized 'Brat' Plans: Helping you define what living unapologetically means for you.
• FOMO Management: Techniques to cope with the anxiety of missing out.
• Self-Validation Exercises: Learning to appreciate your own version of a 'brat summer'.
• Connection Strategies: Ways to authentically connect with others, even if you're not the typical 'brat'.
• Mindfulness Practices: To help you stay present and appreciate your own journey.

Remember, there's no one-size-fits-all approach to having a 'brat summer' or living your best life. It's okay to feel alone or sad, even when the world seems to be celebrating. Let Lotus be your companion in navigating these complex emotions and finding your own path to fulfillment.

Together, we can redefine what it means to have a truly satisfying summer—brat or not.