For those who live on the internet, it has been difficult to avoid the recent onslaught of hyper-positivity. In early 2023, this came in the form of “lucky girl syndrome” on TikTok—the idea that if you repeatedly tell the universe how fortunate you are, you will be. Adopting various techniques to have a more optimistic outlook is nothing new. Perhaps the best-known analogue equivalent is the gratitude journal, in which a practitioner dedicates a certain amount of time each day or week to listing how they are fortunate. The premise is that by regularly thinking about the ways in which your life is good, the reasons why it is not quite ideal will feel less potent. Studies have shown a range of benefits to the habit, This story is from Kinfolk Issue Forty-Eight Buy Now Related Stories Arts & Culture Issue 51 Good Habits The pros and cons of #monkmode. Arts & Culture Issue 40 Good Vibes Only A primer on toxic positivity. Arts & Culture Issue 51 Emily Gernild The Danish painter breathing new life into an old medium. Arts & Culture Food Issue 51 Imogen Kwok The artist takes food styling quite literally, creating accessories out of fruits and vegetables. Arts & Culture Design Issue 51 How to Make a Chair And do it on a tiny budget. Arts & Culture Issue 51 Odd Jobs The comedian with strong opinions about your home décor.
Arts & Culture Food Issue 51 Imogen Kwok The artist takes food styling quite literally, creating accessories out of fruits and vegetables.