“Main character energy” is a popular internet slang term that refers to the confidence, charisma, and sense of self-importance that makes someone feel like the protagonist of their own life story.
The concept of “main character energy” (MCE) has its roots in internet culture, particularly on social media platforms like Twitter, TikTok, and Tumblr. The term is believed to have originated in the mid-2010s, but it gained significant traction in 2020 and 2021.
Early influences
Fanfiction and fandom culture: The idea of being the “main character” in one’s own life story has its roots in fanfiction and fandom culture. Fans would often insert themselves into fictional narratives, imagining themselves as the protagonist.
Self-insert fiction: Self-insert fiction, where authors insert themselves into fictional stories, also contributed to the development of MCE.
Internet personas and avatars: The creation of online personas and avatars allowed individuals to curate a digital identity, which could be seen as a form of main character energy.
Evolution and popularization
Twitter and Tumblr: The concept of MCE gained traction on Twitter and Tumblr, where users would share and discuss their own experiences, thoughts, and feelings, often using the phrase “main character energy” to describe their confidence and self-assurance.
TikTok and Instagram: The rise of short-form video platforms like TikTok and Instagram Reels further popularized MCE, with users creating content that showcased their personalities, styles, and confidence.
Influence of pop culture and media: The concept of MCE has been influenced by various pop culture and media phenomena, such as the “stan” culture, reality TV shows, and social media influencers.
Here are some pros and cons of embracing your main character energy:
Pros
- Confidence boost: Embracing your main character’s energy can give you a confidence boost, helping you feel more self-assured and empowered.
- Charisma and charm: Main character energy can make you more charismatic and charming, drawing people to you and making you more memorable.
- Self-motivation: When you feel like the main character of your own life story, you’re more likely to be self-motivated and driven to achieve your goals.
- Resilience: Main character energy can help you bounce back from setbacks and failures, as you’re more likely to see yourself as a hero who can overcome obstacles.
Cons
- Narcissism: Embracing your main character energy can sometimes tip into narcissism, making you come across as self-absorbed or entitled.
- Unrealistic expectations: When you feel like the main character of your own life story, you may have unrealistic expectations about how things should go or how people should treat you.
- Disconnection from others: Main character energy can sometimes make you feel like you’re the only one who matters, leading to disconnection from others and their feelings and needs.
- Pressure and stress: Embracing your main character energy can put pressure on yourself to constantly perform and achieve, leading to stress and burnout.
Finding a Balance
- Self-awareness: Be aware of your own strengths and weaknesses, and recognise when your main character energy might be getting out of balance.
- Empathy and compassion: Make an effort to connect with others and understand their feelings and needs.
- Humility: Cultivate humility and recognise that you’re not the only one who matters.
- Self-care: Take care of yourself and prioritise your own well-being, rather than trying to constantly perform and achieve.
