In recent months, a trend has arisen on social media in which users share the ways that they “fill their cups.” The trend follows the concept of someone doing small actions to keep themself happy and to prioritize their mental health. People share the things they do or buy for themselves that help them improve their mood or give them something to look forward to. These actions can range from doing something on a smaller scale more frequently to doing something more large-scale less often. Unlike other trends on social media that can promote comparing oneself to others or spreading hate, this trend supports one’s mental health.
The most common ways that people fill their own cups are typically on a smaller scale and tend to be somewhat cheap. Something like buying a small treat for something to look forward to at the end of the week, such as a fancy or expensive drink one normally would not buy. Buying flowers or plants for oneself frequently can also be an example of a small way to follow the trend. Another way could be going outside for a walk or to the gym to exercise, as exercising is a great way to calm down after a stressful day and it is accessible to all. Journaling can additionally help one unwind after a long day of work or school and is also available to most people.
There are also some larger-scale ways that people fill their own cups, typically being on the more expensive side. For example, one could travel or plan a trip to get a break from everyday life. This could be going somewhere local for a quick day or weekend trip, or going somewhere further away for a long vacation. Another larger way to fill your own cup is to buy an item, like an expensive makeup product, jewelry or clothes, “just because.” This is a good way to boost one’s mood and to stay motivated. A different way to fill one’s cup is to get a manicure, or one with a design, every once in a while to splurge. This can be done at a salon and is a small, but expensive way to brighten one’s day. However, a manicure can also be done at home for a lower price. A similar way to fill one’s cup is to go to the hair salon. Getting something simple like a trim or styled, or getting something bigger like getting one’s hair colored, which can also be done at home is a great way to boost one’s mood.
Doing small or large things for oneself can be a great way to positively affect one’s mood. Those that have participated in this trend have said that doing things like these help them look on the brighter side of life and stay happy. Prioritizing one’s own needs by participating in this trend can drastically help one’s mental health.
The trend is a positive way for social media users to come together and share the things that keep them happy. While most media trends are usually negative, this trend in particular has helped people spread positivity to other social media users. The idea of filling one’s own cup has shown people that putting oneself first is a good thing and not selfish.
