Main Character Energy
Live Like a Romcom Hero: How to Embrace Main Character Energy and Romanticize Your Life
In a world where we're often caught up in the rush of everyday routines and challenges, it can be easy to forget that we are the protagonists of our own lives. Embracing “main character energy” and learning to “romanticize your life” are two powerful ways to rediscover joy, purpose, and fulfillment in your daily existence. Inspired by popular romcom novels, let’s explore these concepts and how they can transform your life.
Embracing Main Character Energy
The concept of "Main Character Energy" is a relatively recent phenomenon that gained popularity through social media platforms like TikTok, Twitter, and Instagram. While there isn't a specific origin or single creator of the term, it emerged as a way for people to express the idea of living their lives as if they were the protagonist of their own story, much like the main character in a movie, book, or TV show.
Origins and Evolution
Social Media Influence: The term "Main Character Energy" started trending around 2020, especially on TikTok. Users would create videos highlighting moments in their lives where they felt they were living like the main character in a story. These moments often included doing something bold, being in control of a situation, or simply enjoying a beautiful, serene moment. The idea was to capture the sense of being the center of a compelling narrative, as main characters often are.
Cultural Shift Toward Self-Care and Empowerment: The rise of "Main Character Energy" can also be seen as part of a broader cultural shift towards self-care, self-love, and personal empowerment. It encourages individuals to take control of their narratives, focus on their personal growth, and find beauty and significance in their everyday experiences. This aligns with the growing emphasis on mindfulness, mental health, and intentional living.
Nostalgia for 90s and 2000s Romcoms: The resurgence of interest in romcoms from the 90s and 2000s, with their strong, relatable protagonists, also played a role. These movies often feature ordinary people finding themselves in extraordinary situations, which resonate with the idea of "Main Character Energy." People began to draw parallels between these romcom protagonists and the way they could approach their own lives. Read more about 90s Nostalgia
Response to a Challenging World: With the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic and the subsequent global uncertainty, many people turned to the concept of "Main Character Energy" as a way to regain a sense of control and positivity. It provided a framework for finding joy in small moments and making conscious choices that aligned with one's personal story.
1. Own Your Narrative
Taking control of your life’s story is about making intentional choices that reflect your values and goals. Bridget Jones, from "Bridget Jones’s Diary" by Helen Fielding, exemplifies this as she navigates her insecurities and challenges, ultimately steering her life towards greater self-empowerment and happiness. Just like Bridget, you can shape your own narrative by pursuing your dreams and making decisions that resonate with who you are.
This novel is also featured in Popular Books For Women
2. Build Confidence
Confidence often grows from self-acceptance and taking on new experiences. Lara Jean Covey in "To All the Boys I've Loved Before" by Jenny Han shows how facing romantic and personal hurdles can build self-assurance. Embrace new challenges and acknowledge your achievements to cultivate your confidence.
This novel was also featured on Romance Novels About Second Chances
3. Cultivate Charisma
Charisma is not just about being outgoing; it's about genuine engagement and interest in others. Don Tillman from "The Rosie Project" by Graeme Simsion showcases how his unique approach and genuine nature draw people to him. By being true to yourself and showing authentic interest in others, you can enhance your own charisma.
This novel was also featured on Best Light Hearted Books
4. Dress the Part
Your appearance can influence your mood and self-perception. Rebecca Bloomwood in "Confessions of a Shopaholic" by Sophie Kinsella demonstrates how her fashion choices reflect her confidence and personality. Find styles that make you feel empowered and embrace them as part of your main character journey.
5. Embrace Uniqueness
Being unique is a central theme for Lucy Hutton in "The Hating Game" by Sally Thorne. Her distinctive traits and perspectives set her apart and play a crucial role in her romantic and personal life. Celebrate what makes you different and let your individuality shine.
This novel also appeared on Best Contemporary Romance Books
Romanticizing Your Life
The concept of "romanticizing your life" has roots that stretch back through various cultural, philosophical, and literary traditions, but it has gained particular prominence in recent years as a response to modern life's stress and monotony. Here's a breakdown of where the idea originated and how it has evolved:
Historical and Cultural Roots
Romanticism Movement: The concept of romanticizing one's life can be traced back to the Romanticism movement of the late 18th and early 19th centuries. Romanticism emphasized the importance of individual emotion, nature, and beauty, often as a reaction against the Industrial Revolution and the rationalism of the Enlightenment. Romantics valued the sublime, personal experience, and the emotional depth of the individual. They believed in finding the extraordinary in the ordinary, seeing life itself as a canvas for beauty and meaning.
Philosophical Influences: Philosophers like Henry David Thoreau and Ralph Waldo Emerson, who were influenced by Romanticism, further propagated ideas about finding beauty in everyday life and living with intention. Thoreau’s "Walden," for example, is a celebration of simple living, close to nature, and appreciating the small joys of daily life. This resonates with the modern idea of romanticizing your life, where one seeks to appreciate and elevate everyday experiences.
Literature and Poetry: Throughout history, literature and poetry have often romanticized life. Poets like William Wordsworth and John Keats celebrated the beauty of nature and the depth of human emotion. Novels and poetry have frequently depicted characters who find profound meaning and beauty in the small, everyday moments of life, influencing readers to do the same.
Modern Evolution
Self-Help and Mindfulness: In recent decades, the self-help movement and the rise of mindfulness have encouraged people to live more intentionally and appreciate the present moment. Books and practices that promote mindfulness, such as those by Jon Kabat-Zinn and Thich Nhat Hanh, advocate for finding joy and peace in the present moment, which is at the heart of romanticizing one's life.
Digital Age and Social Media: The concept of romanticizing your life has been amplified by social media platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Pinterest. On these platforms, influencers and everyday users share aesthetically pleasing content—like beautifully arranged coffee cups, cozy reading nooks, scenic walks, and travel adventures—that encourages viewers to appreciate and elevate the small moments of their own lives. This has helped popularize the idea that anyone can create a life that feels cinematic and beautiful, no matter how ordinary it may seem.
Mental Health Awareness: As awareness of mental health has grown, so has the understanding of how everyday practices can impact well-being. Romanticizing one's life is often seen as a form of self-care. It encourages people to slow down, notice the beauty around them, and engage in activities that bring joy and peace, counteracting the stress and anxiety of modern life.
Pandemic Influence: The COVID-19 pandemic played a significant role in popularizing the idea of romanticizing one's life. With people confined to their homes and faced with uncertainty, many turned to finding joy in simple, everyday activities. Social media was filled with people baking bread, gardening, reading, and decorating their homes, all ways of finding beauty and purpose in a more confined and limited setting.
"Romanticizing your life" is about more than just making things look pretty or curating moments for social media. It’s rooted in a historical and cultural appreciation of finding meaning and beauty in the ordinary. Whether through the lens of the Romantic poets, the simplicity of Thoreau’s living, or the curated snapshots of social media, it’s a reminder to look for joy, live intentionally, and appreciate what we have right in front of us. In a fast-paced, often stressful world, it’s a way to bring mindfulness and happiness to our everyday lives.
1. Find Beauty in the Mundane
Finding joy in the everyday can make life feel more magical. "The Flatshare" by Beth O'Leary features characters who discover beauty and comfort in their shared living space and small daily interactions. Pay attention to the little moments that bring you joy, and appreciate them fully.
This novel also appeared on Best Contemporary Books
2. Live with Intention
Approaching life with purpose can transform mundane tasks into meaningful experiences. Eleanor Oliphant in "Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine" by Gail Honeyman illustrates how intentional living can lead to personal growth and deeper connections. Infuse your daily routines with mindfulness and purpose to create a richer experience.
This novel also appeared on Good Books for Book Clubs
3. Create Moments of Joy
Making time for activities that bring happiness can enhance your overall well-being. "Love, Rosie" by Cecelia Ahern shows how the main characters find joy in their friendship and life events. Set aside time for activities you love and savor these moments.
4. Embrace Minimalism
A minimalist lifestyle focuses on what truly matters, helping to appreciate the essentials. In "Attachments" by Rainbow Rowell, Lincoln O’Neill leads a simple life, working the night shift and finding joy in the small pleasures of his everyday routine. As he becomes engrossed in the email exchanges between his coworkers, he learns to appreciate the importance of authentic human connections over materialistic pursuits. This story beautifully illustrates how letting go of the unnecessary can lead to meaningful and fulfilling relationships.
5. Document Your Story
Keeping a journal or capturing memories through photos can help you reflect on and cherish life’s moments. In "One Day" by David Nicholls, the annual meeting of the main characters allows them to document their lives and relationship. Reflecting on your own experiences can add a romantic and nostalgic touch to your life.
Still need helping embracing your status as the main character of your life? I had a lot of fun working with a book cover designer to create a rom com book cover with my family as characters. Read more about that in this blog post on how we announced our pregnancy.
Romcom Soundtrack Playlist
To enhance your journey of embracing main character energy and romanticizing your life, here’s a playlist of songs from popular romcom soundtracks that capture the essence of these concepts. If you need help getting into the mindset of becoming the main character in your life, try listening to these songs while you’re walking down the street or driving to the grocery store:
“I Say a Little Prayer” – Dionne Warwick (My Best Friend’s Wedding)
“She” – Elvis Costello (Notting Hill)
“You Make My Dreams” – Hall & Oates (500 Days of Summer)
“Perfect” – Ed Sheeran (To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before)
“The Way You Look Tonight” – Frank Sinatra (Father of the Bride)
“All You Need Is Love” – The Beatles (The Wedding Date)
“Dancing in the Moonlight” – Toploader (A Walk to Remember)
“I Believe (When I Fall in Love It Will Be Forever)” – Stevie Wonder (High Fidelity)
“There She Goes” – Sixpence None the Richer (Sliding Doors)
“Rollercoaster” – B*Witched (Clueless)
“Always Look on the Bright Side of Life” – Art Garfunkel (As Good as It Gets)
“You’ve Got a Way” – Shania Twain (Runaway Bride)
“Dreams” – The Cranberries (You’ve Got Mail)
“Kiss Me” – Sixpence None the Richer (She’s All That)
“Can’t Take My Eyes Off You” – Cleo Kelly (10 Things I Hate About You)
“This Will Be (An Everlasting Love)” – Natalie Cole (While You Were Sleeping)
“You're So Vain” – Carly Simon (How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days)
“It Had to Be You” – Harry Connick Jr. (When Harry Met Sally)
“A Wink and a Smile” – Harry Connick Jr. (Sleepless in Seattle)
“Never a Day” – Wood (Serendipity)
These songs add a touch of joy and romance to your daily life, helping you to live with intention and embrace the beauty around you.
By incorporating “main character energy” and “romanticizing your life” into your daily routine, you can transform ordinary moments into extraordinary experiences. Inspired by the rich characters and stories in romcom novels, you have the tools to live with intention, embrace your uniqueness, and find joy in the mundane. Remember, your life is your story—make it a beautiful one.
One Year of Main Character Energy
January: New Beginnings
Create a Playlist of Romcom Soundtracks: Start the year by listening to soundtracks from your favorite romcoms like "10 Things I Hate About You," "You’ve Got Mail," and "While You Were Sleeping." Let the music set the tone for a year of Main Character Energy.
**Write Down Your Goals Like in "Bridget Jones’s Diary" **: Begin journaling your aspirations and reflections, just like Bridget. Let your diary be a space where you narrate your life's story, full of ups and downs.
Organize Your Closet like Cher from "Clueless": Spend time decluttering and organizing your wardrobe. Channel Cher Horowitz's closet montage and feel fabulous in every outfit you own.
**Make a Vision Board Inspired by "13 Going on 30" **: Visualize your dreams, goals, and desires by creating a vision board. Remember how Jenna imagined her future, and use that as motivation to plan yours.
February: Love and Connection
**Write Letters Like in "To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before" **: Write heartfelt letters to friends, family, or even crushes. Pour your feelings onto paper, just like Lara Jean, and express the love and appreciation you have for the people in your life.
Have a Movie Night for One, Inspired by "Legally Blonde": Put on your favorite pink outfit, make popcorn, and have a solo movie night. Celebrate your uniqueness and strength, just like Elle Woods.
Plan a Solo Date Like in "Eat Pray Love": Take yourself out for a coffee, a meal, or a walk. Embrace your independence and enjoy your own company, finding beauty in the world around you.
Practice Self-Care Rituals Like in "The Princess Diaries": Set aside time for a pampering session. Light candles, take a bath, and do a facial. Treat yourself like royalty, just as Mia learned to embrace her princess identity.
March: Embrace Adventure
Try a New Hobby Inspired by "The Rosie Project": Dive into a new hobby that excites you, just like Don Tillman embraced his scientific interests. Whether it's cooking, painting, or dancing, let curiosity guide you.
Book a Main Character Energy Photoshoot: Feel like the star you are by booking a professional photoshoot. Dress up in your favorite outfits and let a photographer capture your essence, just like a romcom protagonist.
Read a Different Genre Like in "Notting Hill": Explore books outside your usual genre. Just like how William Thacker steps out of his comfort zone by dating a movie star, step into new literary worlds.
Sign Up for a Class Like in "Maid in Manhattan": Try something new by taking a class, whether it’s salsa dancing, cooking, or creative writing. Explore new skills and interests like Marisa Ventura did in her quest for a better life.
April: Celebrate Growth
Start a Garden Like in "The Secret Garden": Even a small herb garden on your windowsill can bring joy. Embrace the renewal of spring by planting and nurturing growth, just as Mary Lennox did.
Practice Mindfulness Like in "Eat Pray Love": Dedicate time each day to mindfulness and meditation. Like Elizabeth Gilbert, focus on being present and appreciating each moment.
Go for Walks in Nature Inspired by "Before Sunrise": Take walks through parks or along trails, and appreciate the beauty around you. Engage in meaningful conversations with a friend or partner as you explore.
Spring Clean Your Life Like in "The Holiday": Just as Iris and Amanda swapped lives for a change, use this time to cleanse and refresh your space, relationships, and habits.
May: Indulge in Simple Pleasures
Enjoy a Sunrise or Sunset like in "La La Land": Find a scenic spot and take in the beauty of a sunrise or sunset. Let the colors and calm inspire your own dreams and aspirations.
Have a Picnic Like in "Notting Hill": Pack a picnic basket with your favorite foods and enjoy a meal outdoors, soaking up the serenity and romance of your surroundings.
Create a Cozy Reading Nook Like in "You've Got Mail": Transform a corner of your home into a cozy spot for reading. Surround yourself with blankets, pillows, and your favorite books, just like Kathleen Kelly's bookshop.
Bake Something Delicious Like in "Julie & Julia": Try out new baking recipes and enjoy the process of creating something from scratch. Let the kitchen be your happy place, just like it was for Julie.
June: Cultivate Joy
**Dance in Your Living Room Like in "Pride and Prejudice" (2005) ***: Put on some music and dance around your living room, just like Elizabeth Bennet. Embrace the joy of movement and the freedom of letting go.
Visit a Farmers' Market Inspired by "The Holiday": Take a leisurely stroll through a farmers' market, appreciating the fresh produce and local crafts. Enjoy the sights, sounds, and flavors, much like Iris does in her small English village.
Host a Dinner Party Like in "Bridget Jones's Diary": Invite friends over for a meal. Share laughter, stories, and good food, celebrating the simple joy of togetherness.
**Practice Gratitude Like in "The Secret" **: Make a habit of writing down things you’re grateful for. Focus on the positive and attract more good things into your life.
July: Celebrate Independence
Take a Solo Trip Like in "Wild": Plan a solo adventure, even if it’s a short getaway. Embrace the freedom and empowerment of traveling alone, finding yourself in new places.
Explore Your City Like in "Breakfast at Tiffany’s": Spend a day being a tourist in your own city. Visit new places, try new foods, and see your hometown with fresh eyes, just like Holly Golightly.
Watch Fireworks Like in "Sleepless in Seattle": Find a place to watch a fireworks display, celebrating the magic of the moment. Feel the awe and wonder of being part of something larger than yourself.
Create a Summer Playlist Like in "500 Days of Summer": Compile a list of songs that capture the essence of summer. Let music be the soundtrack to your summer adventures.
August: Bask in Sunshine
Spend a Day at the Beach Like in "Mamma Mia!": Pack a beach bag, head to the shore, and enjoy a day of sun, sea, and sand. Let the waves wash away your worries, just like the characters on the Greek island.
Read a Classic Novel Inspired by "You’ve Got Mail": Curl up with a classic book you’ve always wanted to read. Appreciate the timeless stories and let them transport you to another world.
Have an Outdoor Movie Night Like in "La La Land": Set up a projector or screen outdoors and enjoy a movie under the stars. Create a magical evening with blankets, snacks, and a favorite film.
Write a Summer Bucket List Like in "To All the Boys: P.S. I Still Love You": Make a list of fun and exciting things you want to do before summer ends. Enjoy each moment and create memories that will last.
September: Embrace Change
Start a New Routine Like in "Julie & Julia": Introduce a new routine into your life, such as cooking a new recipe every week. Embrace the joy of learning and growing.
Go Apple Picking Like in "Little Women": Embrace the autumn season by going apple picking. Enjoy the fresh air and the simple pleasure of being outdoors, just like the March sisters.
Write a Letter to Your Future Self Like in "About Time": Reflect on your current thoughts, dreams, and challenges. Write a letter to yourself, to be opened in the future, just as Tim treasures memories in the film.
Take Up Photography Like in "One Day": Start capturing the beauty around you with a camera, much like Emma Morley. Document your life through photos, finding magic in everyday moments.
October: Embrace Mystery
Watch Classic Films Inspired by "You've Got Mail": Spend the month watching iconic romcoms. Find inspiration and joy in the timeless stories that have made you laugh and cry.
Host a Themed Party Like in "Clueless": Organize a fun and creative themed party, like a costume party for Halloween. Enjoy the creativity and social connections that themed events bring.
Go on a Ghost Tour Inspired by "Practical Magic": Explore local legends and haunted places. Embrace the thrill and mystery of the supernatural, much like the Owens sisters.
Write a Short Story Like in "Love Actually": Channel your inner writer and pen a short story. Just like Jamie writes his novel, let your creativity flow and see where your imagination takes you.
November: Give Thanks
Volunteer Like in "About a Boy": Find a local charity or community group to volunteer with. Experience the fulfillment of giving back and making a difference, just like Will and Marcus.
Create a Gratitude Jar Inspired by "Eat Pray Love": Each day, write something you’re grateful for on a slip of paper and place it in a jar. At the end of the month, read through all the positive moments.
Cook a Meal from Scratch Like in "Julie & Julia": Spend time in the kitchen preparing a delicious meal. Appreciate the process and the joy of cooking, savoring each bite.
Reconnect with Old Friends Like in "The Big Chill": Reach out to someone you haven’t spoken to in a while. Reconnect and rekindle friendships that mean a lot to you.
December: Celebrate the Season
Decorate Your Space Like in "Love Actually": Add festive touches to your home to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Embrace the holiday spirit and make your space feel magical.
Practice Hygge Like in "The Holiday": Embrace the Danish concept of coziness. Light candles, drink hot chocolate, and enjoy the warmth of a fire, just like Amanda and Iris.
Attend a Cultural Event Like in "Amélie": Visit a local theater, concert, or art gallery. Immerse yourself in culture and find inspiration in the creativity of others.
Create a Time Capsule Like in "Definitely, Maybe": Collect items that represent this year and store them away. Open it in a few years to relive the memories, much like the characters reflect on their past.
Year-End Reflection and New Beginnings
Reflect on Your Year Like in "The Holiday": Take time to look back on your year. Reflect on what you’ve learned and how you’ve grown, just as Iris and Amanda did during their time away.
Host a New Year’s Eve Gathering Like in "Bridget Jones’s Diary": Celebrate the end of the year with friends or family. Ring in the new year with laughter, love, and joy.
Write a List of Your Achievements Like in "Legally Blonde": Acknowledge everything you’ve accomplished this year, just as Elle Woods did. Celebrate your progress and set goals for the future.
Plan for the Year Ahead Like in "Leap Year": Set goals and make plans for the new year, inspired by Anna Brady’s journey. Envision your ideal life and take steps to make it happen.
By drawing inspiration from beloved romcom movies and novels, these tips are designed to help you see yourself as the main character in your own life. Embrace the magic, adventure, and romance of everyday moments, making each week of the year special and memorable.
