Social media is known for popularizing collectible toys, using platforms to influence the general public. You can’t blame anyone who goes out of their way to find a Labubu because several videos by famous creators show how cute and trendy they are. This can be a good representation of the mindset of those who inhabit platforms and those who consume short-form content. Toy trends have always been a thing: Beanie Babies, Funko Pops, American Girl Dolls.

Collectable trinkets are nothing new, but social media has proven to hold a noticeable impact on how people respond to particular items, specifically the attention span towards such fads. Beanie Babies were popular between 1990-1999, compared to fidget spinners that were popular around the internet before it quickly stopped being mentioned the same year (2017). Beanie Babies are still being talked about in passing conversations between adults. If you go up to a random kid or teenager and say, “How ‘bout those fidget spinners, amiright?” They’ll think you’ve been living in your mom’s basement for the last eight years.

Social media has a huge impact on reactions towards trends and toys. Having them go around more easily with the fast spread of information of short-form content, but also has items grow old faster with the shortened attention span of those consumers. Not to sound like a nostalgic old lady that shakes her fist at young folk, yelling, “Gosh darn kids nowadays!” However, it’s worth pointing out that with the age of technology, attention spans and people’s easily influenced attitudes have been incredibly easy for content to manipulate.

The easiest conclusion is to not be so influenced by what you see online, but it’s not easy. The best solution is to distance yourself from a mindset that content and media are set up for you. Take breaks, touch grass, enjoy life without a Labubu.