They say the modern world will never truly be calm — but it’s clearly striving to be
Traditionally, a new life begins on January 1. But we suggest shifting the timeline slightly. After long holidays, it takes time to return to a normal rhythm — and this moment is perfect for gradually changing habits and preparing for what 2026 will look like. The world is changing fast, and the next 12 months will definitely not resemble the previous ones.
If 2025 was marked by a boom in artificial intelligence, endless debates between Gen Z and boomers, and the Labubu craze, then 2026 will be all about seeking maximum calm and quiet. These forecasts were published by the authoritative outlet The New York Times. Here are the trends that are already beginning to shape the world.
Button Phones
In recent years, digital detoxes have become increasingly popular. Turning off your phone in the evening after work is now the bare minimum, while the real luxury is not touching it at all on weekends or vacations — except to take a few photos for memories. The constant stream of alarming news, images of “toxic success,” and endless notifications that destroy focus have turned smartphones from helpers into enemies for many people.
That’s why sales of so-called “bricks” — basic button phones — are growing faster than ever. If you’ve long dreamed of diving back into the era of glamour and buying a pink rhinestone flip phone like Paris Hilton’s, now is the time. Experts also warn that smartphones significantly impair cognitive function, so instead of scrolling reels before bed, it’s better to choose sudoku, crosswords, or reading.
Gen Z Dating
Gen Z is currently the most discussed generation and surrounded by countless stereotypes. One of them claims that all zoomers are loners who see marriage as pointless and have no interest in romantic relationships at all. Previously, experts explained this rejection of relationships by saying that Gen Z struggles with real-world communication after growing up online. But the situation is beginning to change.
In an attempt to escape real-world problems, people are once again searching for romance and passion — and Gen Z is no exception. Interestingly, they prefer to meet offline: at lectures, exhibitions, parties, and sports clubs.
No Slop! Yes to Wabi-Sabi!
In December 2025, Merriam-Webster named “slop” the word of the year. “Slop” refers to low-quality digital content, usually generated by AI. To understand the concept, just remember Tralalelo Tralala and Bombardiro Crocodilo — social media was flooded with them in early 2025, and watching even a few short videos felt like your brain was melting.
Within a year, slop became so exhausting that many people began actively boycotting AI content. In the future, content inspired by the Japanese philosophy of wabi-sabi will gain popularity — creators will seek beauty in simple, imperfect things, such as nature.
Marketing Everywhere
Remember the marketing campaign for Barbie in 2023? Everyone talked about the film, Margot Robbie appeared almost daily in a new shade of pink, and Ryan Gosling sang I’m Just Ken from every corner. The campaign’s success was undeniable — nearly $1.5 billion at the global box office and several Oscar nominations — but audiences eventually grew tired of the intensity.
Experts say this was only the beginning. Soon, all major Hollywood projects will launch with the same level of noise. The hype around Marty the Magnificent, which everyone is talking about right now, proves it. Analysts predict that movie characters will soon have their own social media accounts, blurring the line between fiction and reality.
Drama Around the White House
Love TV series? The most popular one in 2026 will unfold in real time — around Donald Trump. Political analysts say the U.S. president will soon become the main source of headline-grabbing news, not limited to relations between global powers.
What foundation does he use to cover bruises on his hands before official meetings? Why does Melania look happy at some events and display a perfect “Slavic stare” at others? What controversial statement will Ivanka make next — or will she leave politics altogether? “The Biden era was calm, and it’s over,” people write online.
Ex-Influencers
Just a few years ago, glamorous social-media lifestyles still impressed audiences. Influencers showed luxury resorts, private jets, caviar breakfasts, and shopping sprees in high-end boutiques — and people believed them. But after several major scandals, the illusion collapsed. It turned out designer bags could be fake, private jets could be rented for photos, and unpaid taxes could pile up into the millions.
Trust in influencers plummeted, and the empty niche is now being filled by ex-influencers. These bloggers show real life: cooking at home, hiking, cleaning, grocery shopping — without triggering FOMO, the fear of missing out.
The No Buy Trend
The No Buy trend isn’t new, but in 2026 it will reach a new level. Previously, Gen Z gave up luxury goods and expensive gadgets. Now, they’ve created much stricter blacklists. No unnecessary clothing or cosmetics, jewelry, alcohol, paid subscriptions, taxis, food delivery, restaurants, beauty salons, books, or anything outside basic necessities.
No more “acidic” AI content and a rejection of unnecessary spending: in the coming months, we may finally be able to breathe a little easier.
