Quiandra Pemberton

Romantic advice on the internet usually falls into two extremes. Either it’s overly idealistic (the kind that makes relationships look effortless), or it’s so cynical that it makes you wonder why anyone bothers dating at all. I’ve been in a long-term relationship that started in my teens and somehow grew with me into adulthood (#inmyfiancéeera 💍).

We know the age-old saying: “New year, new me.” However, it’s not just new goals; it’s new pressure. There’s this expectation to automatically become a “better” version of yourself overnight. Suddenly, everyone has a five-year plan, a new personality and a morning routine that starts at 5 a.m. This year, I’m not doing any of that. Instead of resolutions I’ll abandon by February, I want to set the tone for 2026 in a way that’s more feasible for me and the stage that I’m currently at in life.

When the aired on Nov. 25, Gen Z tuned in as if the results would affect our GPAs. Group chats went into overdrive, TikTok creators made thinkpieces in real time, and everyone was suddenly deeply invested in a show they had forgotten about until the new season dropped. I’ve always said that the hold reality TV has on our generation needs to be studied. From love triangles to meltdowns, these shows have become a comfort watch for so many of us. It’s quite the conundrum when you think about it.