I scroll through my feed, and there it is again: another trend I feel like I need to follow. It’s everywhere—on social media, in conversations, even in ads. The fear of missing out starts to creep in. I begin to wonder: is this what happiness looks like?

In today’s digital age, it’s easy to feel like you’re always chasing the next big thing. With social media at our fingertips, we are bombarded with new trends every day, from the latest fashion and tech gadgets to viral challenges. Many young people feel the pressure to keep up, worried that falling behind means missing out on something important. But does keeping up with every trend really make us happy? Or is it just a fleeting sense of satisfaction that leaves us wanting more?

The truth is, this endless cycle of chasing trends can be exhausting and even harmful. Psychologically, constantly trying to stay updated can lead to anxiety, stress, and a distorted sense of self-worth. We might start to measure our happiness by how many likes we get or how we compare to others. The more we chase trends, the more we might question if we’re good enough or if we’re living life the ‘right’ way. This cycle creates more insecurity than real joy.

This is where TEDxUNJ comes in. TEDxUNJ offers a refreshing break from the trend-chasing madness. It’s a space where you can pause and find out what truly excites you. With its diverse speakers and interactive workshops, TEDxUNJ encourages you to explore your passions and focus on what really matters, not just what’s popular.

What’s often overlooked is that trends are meant to be temporary. They change fast, leaving us in a never-ending loop of catch-up that drains our time, energy, and money. And yet, we keep falling into the trap, mistaking temporary excitement for lasting joy. TEDxUNJ helps you break free from this cycle and find out what genuinely brings you joy.

True happiness isn’t found in chasing the latest trends. It’s about accepting who you are, discovering what truly matters to you, and following your genuine interests. So next time when you feel the urge to follow a new trend, take a moment to ask yourself: Is this really making me happy? Or am I just trying to fit in? 

Happiness isn’t about staying on top of trends—it’s about staying true to yourself. Be yourself. Be authentic with TEDxUNJ.