YOLO
YOLO (You Only Live Once) is often used to express the idea that life is short, and we should take risks and enjoy ourselves while we have the chance.
YOLO (You Only Live Once) is often used to express the idea that life is short, and we should take risks and enjoy ourselves while we have the chance.
Extended Definition:
YOLO is a phrase that emphasizes the idea of living life to the fullest, seizing opportunities, and taking risks because life is short. The concept of “YOLO” encourages individuals to make the most out of their lives, prioritize their passions and dreams, and embrace new experiences without fear of regret or hesitation. It is typically used in informal settings among friends, often in casual conversations and social media posts and is often associated with a carefree and adventurous attitude towards life, where one is encouraged to pursue their passions, try new things, and live without regrets. It can also be seen as a reminder to prioritize self-fulfillment, personal growth, and meaningful experiences over societal expectations or fear of failure. “In 2021, YOLO as a catchphrase has all but disappeared from the lexicon. However, YOLO as a philosophy is still very much in effect—and arguably, its powers are now being used for good” (Thompson).
Examples (Usages):
Abdul: I heard there's a new rollercoaster at the amusement park. Are you up for it? Dawna: I'm a bit scared of heights, but you know what? YOLO! Let's do it!
Sarah: I got tickets to a concert of my favorite band, but it's on a school night. Want to come? Joe: Hmm, I have a big test the next day, but you know what? YOLO! I'll study extra hard tomorrow. Count me in!
YOLO made me quit my kinda stable but unfulfilling job to pursue my passion because I realized life is too short to waste time doing something I don't enjoy, and I really need to escape the matrix.
While the use of YOLO in communication has declined in recent years, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic, the pandemic has led many people to reevaluate their priorities and adopt a more practical YOLO perspective. This shift has been positive compared to the early 2010s, when the YOLO outlook was often associated with reckless behavior. The pandemic has also pushed people out of their comfort zones, encouraging them to take risks and try new things. Personally, I have found myself embracing the YOLO perspective and embracing opportunities that I may have hesitated to attempt before.
Works Cited:
“Moobs and YOLO among New Words in Oxford English Dictionary.” BBC News, 12 Sept. 2016, www.bbc.com/news/uk-37336564. Accessed 16 Apr. 2023.
Thompson, Eliza. “You Only Live Once: What YOLO Looks like in 2021.” The Shutterstock Blog, The Shutterstock Blog, 10 Aug. 2021, www.shutterstock.com/blog/you-only-live-once-yolo. Accessed 16 Apr. 2023.
“YOLO.” Cambridge Dictionary, 12 Apr. 2023, www.dictionary.cambridge.org/us/dictionary/english/yolo. Accessed 16 Apr. 2023.
Zimmer, Ben. “What Is YOLO? Only Teenagers Know for Sure” BostonGlobe.com, 26 Aug. 2012, www.bostonglobe.com/ideas/2012/08/25/what-yolo-only-teenagers-know-for-sure/Idso04FecrYzLa4KOOYpXO/story.html. Accessed 16 Apr. 2023.
Bio
Abdul is a technology and commerce enthusiast who is currently a student at Sac City College.