Marjorie Rhéaume discovered a captivating trend on TikTok where individuals were embracing self-assigned reading as a personal learning endeavor. Fascinated by this concept, Rhéaume, known as Cozy Marjorie on social media, found her feed inundated with similar videos that sparked her interest due to her love for acquiring knowledge.
The trend gained momentum in June when a TikTok creator, Elizabeth Jean (@xparmesanprincessx), shared her practice of creating a monthly personal curriculum. Her video, detailing how she selects various subjects and corresponding reading materials each month, has garnered over 70,000 views. Since then, individuals have tailored this trend to suit their learning goals, such as mastering piano basics or exploring new languages.
For many, this trend signifies a rekindling of the joy of learning post-formal education, while for others, it serves as a means to combat “brain rot,” a term popularized by Oxford as the negative impact of excessive consumption of low-quality online content. The term saw a 230% surge in usage from 2023 to 2024, highlighting the concerns surrounding cognitive decline due to excessive screen time.
Experts emphasize the importance of setting intentional learning goals to enhance mental well-being while navigating social media consumption. By engaging in self-directed study, individuals can explore their intrinsic motivations and pursue their interests. Marjorie Rhéaume, for instance, is immersing herself in the history of fibre arts as part of her personal curriculum, aiming to delve into crafting’s impact over a four-month study period.
The trend’s popularity underscores a growing desire for personalized learning experiences outside traditional educational structures. Embracing autonomy in learning can lead to a more fulfilling educational journey, focusing on individual interests and motivations. Ultimately, engaging in intentional self-directed study, whether through social media trends or personal initiatives, can be a beneficial practice for personal growth and well-being.