2020 was a year for the history books. From the pandemic to the election, we all experienced a shift in life as we knew it. While many people used that time to focus on their health, habits, and hobbies, some turned to the internet as a source of comfort. Communities were formed, and one platform in particular saw a rise in users. This app was TikTok.

TikTok began as an app for dancing and lip syncing, but quickly became so much more than that. It divided into sections, with niche interests to represent groups of users. “Alt-tok” was used to describe an edgier, quirky side of the app. There you could find indie music, goth girls, and a space for fanbases, like Harry Potter (more on that soon). I don’t want to talk about the app though, I would like to talk about one particular thing that was popular, one which I think needs to be addressed.

I’m talking about shifting. Yeah, it’s time to talk about that. 

Shifting, short for reality shifting, was a trend (it may STILL be a trend) in which TikTok users used various techniques to “shift realities”. “Shifters” would shift to other realities such as the Marvel Universe, Stranger Things and Hogwarts. They would then build a life within these realities, most commonly seeking out a relationship with Harry Potter character, Draco Malfoy. I’m not kidding man. 

Techniques for shifting include journaling, meditation, rituals, and affirmations. In a reddit thread I found that drinking water helps “raise the vibrations”, making it easier to shift. I don’t know what that means, but the dude had a Demon Slayer profile picture and seemed like an expert. I’m not going into depth on techniques because I don’t want to accidentally spawn more shifters.

While I am all for having an imagination, we may have entertained this one too far. I mean, come on. Shifting to Hogwarts to date the Weasley twins? Are you serious? Stop it. This is me telling everyone to stop this right now.

Some users have reported mental health issues arising after shifting, and yeah, duh. I don’t know how to say how I feel without directly shaming some of you, so I hope you get how I feel. It was weird in 2020, and it is really weird now. Try living in this reality, it’s not that bad.

All said with love,

        Adia.