“TikToks are my form of self-expression.”
The coronavirus pandemic has impacted me in many ways, not directly but has definitely changed my lifestyle. For one, March 12th was the last time I was at school and I have not left my house since March 14th. Social distancing has been highly promoted worldwide by governments and other organizations in order to stop the spreading of the virus. Of course, I follow these rules as I try my best to be considerate to the people around me and staying healthy is the best thing I can do right now (for myself and others).
However, all this time at home has made me quite bored. I initially spent my time preparing for IB exams, by studying, doing past papers, practicing time management and other testing strategies. But my parents and teachers highlighted that it is important I continue to live a balanced and healthy life, which means I continue to integrate a series of CAS components into my daily routine.
At first, I found this quite easy as I would go on morning runs/walks around my street for fitness and activity and then perhaps cook or bake something with my siblings, for creativity. I would also try to limit the use of electricity in my home in order to pay a service to the environment. But recently, the government has imposed some police curfews making it not possible for me to leave my home and limiting household resources. I decided that it would be best that I found a new pastime for myself, which would not need me to leave my house nor use any of the limited resources in my home.
This situation has equally impacted a lot of my friends, and they inspired me to start using a popular social media application called “TikTok”. At first, I found it a bit overrated and a waste of time. However, this experience has led me to realize that TikTok is a platform of expression and communication. TikToks use dance, lip-syncing, comedy, and talent to create short videos with premade music. This allows for users to express themselves freely and openly in an exciting and fun way.
However, I have been using TikTok as my form of fitness and creativity. Not only do they require a significant level of talent, but also movement. I have been practicing making TikToks every day, and for each one, they get better. I also have been making my own dance moves and choreographing my TikToks which allows me to be creative and express myself freely. I believe I am developing new skills every day because of TikTok, and the application allows me to work collaboratively with others to make dances and videos.
Furthermore, I do hope that the situation works itself out soon, as I do miss my friends and being able to partake in activities I usually do. But, for now, I am happy I discovered the lengths TikTok can take me.
Cover Image: screenshot of my TikTok account