I've always been the reader and movie-lover in my friend group. The way that stories and characters inspire me to be the best version of myself touches my soul in a way that nothing else does. I was already an imaginative child, but after my family moved across our state, I spent all of middle school connecting with fictional words and characters, so I spoke to relationship expert Elizabeth Earnshaw, LMFT, for a look at why our bonds with fictional characters are so strong.
I've always been the reader and movie-lover in my friend group. The way that stories and characters inspire me to be the best version of myself touches my soul in a way that nothing else does. I was already an imaginative child, but after my family moved across our state, I spent all of middle school connecting with fictional words and characters, so I spoke to relationship expert Elizabeth Earnshaw, LMFT, for a look at why our bonds with fictional characters are so strong.
As I aged, I felt like I was growing up with my favorite characters, from The Chronicles of Narnia's Lucy Pevensie to the various superheroes in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. As someone who's on the quieter side, it's always been inspiring to see characters that are brave under pressure because it makes me feel like I can be brave, too.
"Fictional romances can make us believe that our own romances should look exactly as we see them on the screen," Earnshaw says. "The same with how friendships and family relationships might be represented. But in real life, relationships are more complex and include day-to-day interactions which can't possibly be demonstrated on TV."
With so many shows and movies available, it takes no time at all to fall out of one hyperfixation and into another, but Earnshaw says that's not necessarily a bad thing. "Remind yourself that it's okay to have a fantasy! It is also okay to admire a character. I think it's super important not to have shame around this," she says. "And then, use that admiration and fantasy to consider what it means for your real life — what are you hoping for? What type of connections do you need?"
Whatever you're up to this sunny season, you can count on a summer dress to elevate your look. We've got a few favorite picks here, including casual dresses.
Whatever you're up to this sunny season, you can count on a summer dress to elevate your look. We've got a few favorite picks here, including casual dresses.
When my sister told me I had to try the frozen tea at Morocco in the World's Showcase, I wasn't so sold. Gin and tea didn't sound refreshing on a hot, Florida day — I just kept picturing spiked Earl Grey in a tea cup. I'm here to admit: I was wrong. The frozen mint tea was the perfect pair for walking around Epcot's many countries, keeping me cool and tasting absolutely delicious. And if you're worried about the gin being too gin-like — don't. It mixes in magically.
woman walking down stair under clear blue sky during daytime
Photo by When my sister told me I had to try the frozen tea at Morocco in the World's Showcase, I wasn't so sold. Gin and tea didn't sound refreshing on a hot, Florida day — I just kept picturing spiked Earl Grey in a tea cup. I'm here to admit: I was wrong. The frozen mint tea was the perfect pair for walking around Epcot's many countries, keeping me cool and tasting absolutely delicious. And if you're worried about the gin being too gin-like — don't. It mixes in magically.
woman standing in front of white wall
Photo by When my sister told me I had to try the frozen tea at Morocco in the World's Showcase, I wasn't so sold. Gin and tea didn't sound refreshing on a hot, Florida day — I just kept picturing spiked Earl Grey in a tea cup. I'm here to admit: I was wrong. The frozen mint tea was the perfect pair for walking around Epcot's many countries, keeping me cool and tasting absolutely delicious. And if you're worried about the gin being too gin-like — don't. It mixes in magically.
woman in yellow tracksuit standing on basketball court side
Photo by When my sister told me I had to try the frozen tea at Morocco in the World's Showcase, I wasn't so sold. Gin and tea didn't sound refreshing on a hot, Florida day — I just kept picturing spiked Earl Grey in a tea cup. I'm here to admit: I was wrong. The frozen mint tea was the perfect pair for walking around Epcot's many countries, keeping me cool and tasting absolutely delicious. And if you're worried about the gin being too gin-like — don't. It mixes in magically.
The Great Report
2020 Global Report Sheet
