The Winter Arc, a TikTok-inspired trend, has become more than just a meme, for some it has become a mindset. Coinciding with the colder months, this self-improvement trend encourages individuals to dedicate time to building better habits, focusing on physical health and mental wellness for personal growth. For students at MRHS, the Winter Arc has blended humor and discipline to create a unique seasonal mindset.
At its core, the Winter Arc is about committing to improvement. What sets it apart from traditional New Year’s resolutions everyone falsely promises is the timing and approach. Instead of waiting for January 1st to kickstart goals, this time period allows participants to aim to spend roughly 90 days locked in, using the season to focus on themselves.
“I think it’s very beneficial for people who are trying to improve themselves. Although it’s a trend, it’s something that ultimately benefits society,” explained senior Erin Yi.
The Winter Arc isn’t just about fitness or self-discipline; it’s about quiet preparation. Many participants jokingly refer to this period as a time to bulk up in the shadows, so they can emerge in the spring ready to surprise everyone with their progress. For some, this means hitting the gym or adopting healthier habits.
What began as a joke, the Winter Arc also propelled its popularity, especially among students. Social media is full of exaggerated posts about eating too many calories to rapidly gain weight or cutting off social interaction completely to focus on the grind. Freshman Matthew Singh embraced the meme aspect, saying, “See me in the spring and it’s over. I’m in the gym and getting my money up, no social life-just grind.” These comedic exaggerations become a lighthearted way to take the pressure off while still committing to personal growth.
These takes on self-discipline have some students going to the extent of joining TikTok influencers’ streams to get advice on looks. The trend allows participants to laugh at themselves while still pursuing genuine progress. Senior Mark Shi described the impact of Winter Arc memes, saying, “Whenever I see a Winter Arc meme, it’s empowering. It’s like a reminder that I need to keep pushing.” The season also fosters a sense of community among those who take part in it. Though many of the activities involve personal improvement, the shared experience of embracing the trend creates a bond between participants.
The Winter Arc is a blend of humor, self-improvement and community that has captured the attention of many students at MRHS. The Winter Arc is not just a trend; for many, it’s a mindset that emphasizes dedication, progress and personal growth. Whether hitting the gym, focusing on mental health or setting new academic goals, the Winter Arc encourages many to use the winter months as a time for reflection and self-betterment. For many, the Winter Arc has become a meaningful part of their journey to self-improvement. As the spring approaches, the progress made during these 90 days will speak for itself.
