As the new year has begun, the annual tradition of declaring the “ins and outs” of the year has made its return. New priorities and goals are reshaping people’s values and changing their everyday habits. Along with this comes a mindfulness of the things people are leaving behind in 2025, whether it be something lighthearted or actually harmful. Here is a comprehensive guide to the internet’s collective “ins and outs.”
The “Ins” of 2026:
Many influencers have mentioned protecting their peace in their videos. This means they don’t get involved with things that cause drama or hurt their feelings, even if it provides temporary happiness. People emphasized being more productive and doing things that don’t involve being on social media. Things like playing board games or reading a new book are encouraged. Going along with this, being more active has been a common “in” for many influencers in their videos. Whether it’s going on a hike, doing hot yoga or pilates, or even just a walk around their neighborhood, being active is not only good for people’s health, but also their overall mood.
As Medline Plus states, “During exercise, your body releases chemicals that can improve your mood and make you feel more relaxed. This can help you deal with stress, manage anxiety, and reduce your risk of depression.”
Another “in” of 2026 is getting enough sleep every night. Sleep is so important because it allows the body and brain to recharge, boosting people’s immune systems and helping their overall moods. It helps with memory, energy, growth, and people’s cognitive abilities. Seven to nine hours is the recommended range for sleep every night. Journaling in the morning is also an “in.” Journaling right after waking up is a great way to express one’s feelings, set intentions for the day, reduce stress, and overall can contribute to starting the day with a positive mindset. It is a form of mental-decluttering and helps people stay focused on what is important.
Influencers have also added some fun “ins” for 2026 like saying hi to strangers or giving people random compliments. This is a positive “in” that puts a smile on other people’s faces.
A sophomore at CHS, Alexis Sung said, “I want to try to start studying more, like developing better study habits and I want to try to read more.”
Another sophomore at CHS, Judah Ilouis said, “An “in” is not procrastinating and an “out” is drama.”
The “Outs” of 2026:
Doomscrolling is something that a lot of people tend to do without even realizing. You wake up in the morning and scroll on your phone, then you look at the time and don’t even realize two hours have passed. It can drain people’s focus and energy, which impacts their daily tasks.
An article called “Doomscrolling dangers” stated, “An August 2024 study of 800 adults published in Computers in Human Behavior Reports reinforces those findings, suggesting doomscrolling evokes greater levels of existential anxiety — a feeling of dread or panic that arises when we confront the limitations of our existence.”
It can also actually cause headaches, muscle tension, low appetite, and difficulty sleeping. Some ways to fight the urge to doomscrolling is turning off the phone or keeping it out of reach.
Another “out” for 2026 is people-pleasing. This means doing something or saying something just so other people will like it. They prioritize other people’s approval and needs above their own. Individuals tend to do this because they are scared of rejection or conflict. To get out of this cycle, setting boundaries and saying “no” more often is a good place to start.
Constantly posting on social media is also an “out” for 2026. Not everyone needs to know what others are doing at all times. Instead, it is more fulfilling to live in the moment and keep most things private. Staying in the present allows moments to feel more memorable and authentic.
Some silly “outs” for 2026 include thinking you can go one more day without washing your hair or getting overpriced coffees everyday.
With the entire year ahead of us, there is room to learn and grow in all of these areas. With this general list of the “ins” and “outs” of 2026, it serves as a helpful starting point for individual goals and reflections. The new year is an opportunity to start clean, and move with purpose each day.
