Social media has changed not only how people communicate and follow trends but also their approach to self-perception and self-expression. Today, people have started assigning special names to specific aspects of their lives, moods, or lifestyles.
In the digital language of Generation Z, the term 'era' is part of this trend. Some are in a 'soft girl era,' others in a 'healing era,' a 'fitness era,' or a 'self-love era.' Thus, any new stage of life can become a new 'era.'
What does 'era' mean?
Simply put, 'era' is used to denote a specific period or phase in a person's life. Whatever currently holds the most significance in your life can be called your 'era.' For example, if a person focuses on their health and physical shape, they might jokingly or casually call themselves someone in a 'fitness era.' Similarly, after a breakup, a person focused on themselves might call their life a 'healing era.'
Why has the 'soft girl era' become popular?
'Soft girl era' is a prime example of this phenomenon. It is not just a trend related to clothing or makeup. It includes elements such as softness, self-care, comfort, and prioritizing one's own happiness. An academic article published in 2025 examined the 'soft girl era' as a lifestyle trend emphasizing comfort, healing, and joy.
A distinct visual image has formed on social media, including pastel tones, soft makeup, journaling, self-care, and a calm lifestyle. Although the 'soft girl' trend did not start solely in this form, over time its meaning has expanded from fashion to lifestyle and personal choice.
Why name every stage?
For Generation Z, 'era' is not just a fashionable word but a form of self-expression. It allows describing a long period or mood with a single short word. A phrase like 'I am currently in my healing era' often seems simpler and more suitable for social media than telling the whole story. According to a report presented at the Meta and Instagram trend walk in 2024, interest among Indian Gen Z in personal growth and self-improvement was noticeable. Specifically, 43% of Indian Gen Z expressed hope for creating a 'self-improvement era.'
Thus, 'era' has ceased to be just an internet trend. It has transformed into a method of naming, recognizing, and expressing one's story across various life stages on social media. Sometimes it is related to fashion and lifestyle, and sometimes to personal growth and self-care. However, the question remains: why does Generation Z enjoy calling every new stage of their life a new 'era'?