Photo Courtesy: Everton Vila | Unsplash
GEN Zs have hopped onto the trend of “soft launching,” a practice where individuals subtly feature their new significant others on social media without fully revealing their identities.
If you’ve seen one of your Instagram mutuals post a bouquet of flowers with a heart emoji floating above it, a mirror selfie with the phone hiding another person’s face, or two cups of coffee placed close together, then you definitely know what a soft launch is. At this point, it’s inescapable.
The reason behind this trend is both amusing and meaningful, as it reflects a desire for privacy and the gradual sharing of personal relationships in a way that maintains an element of mystery and control.
Several factors contribute to why Gen Zs like this concept.
Soft launching is often used not only with significant others but also with individuals in ‘no-label’ relationships.
To subtly post about someone often indicates that the relationship label is not yet confirmed, so the posting is kept as low-key as possible.
Speaking of low-key, Gen Zs also use this approach to maintain a quiet and private lifestyle.
Some of them use soft launching as a means to control their tendency to overshare, believing that not everything should be made public.
Additionally, this trend helps avoid the influence of other people’s opinions. Despite efforts to disregard negative comments, they can still impact decision-making processes.
Another factor behind why Generation Z engages in soft launching is to test the waters and observe the reactions of their peers.
Why test the reactions of peers? It could be because there is a concern that they are dating someone unsuitable, or because the person is from the past and may not be well-received by friends.
Either way, informing peers about personal shenanigans should not be forced but communicated effectively.
It is important to remember: a true friend will understand, but will not tolerate poor decisions.
@spams777_ #fyp #friends #dress #foru ♬ Dress – (Taylor’s version)
Gen Zs also use soft launching to avoid public drama, believing that maintaining a quiet relationship results in a less dramatic life.
Similar to controlling oneself from oversharing, finding peace in having less public knowledge is preferred.
@jengtaugan Tag your low maintenance friends. Hindi man kayo nagkikita everyday but I’m sure that you’re always there for each other no matter what. 🙂 #lowmaintenancefriendship #friendship #friends #bestfriendsforever #bff ♬ Backsound Puisi – Audiolist Productions
Aside from this, soft launching can also be thrilling due to the excitement of slowly revealing a relationship. They enjoy the process of gradual disclosure and the ensuing speculations and gossip, finding it a source of entertainment.
@clauditheeshortie ♬ Favoritism by clairo – :p
With the rise of social media and various strategies to display love, affection, and pride in a partner, what remains most important is the genuine status behind the scenes and the authentic bond and companionship built, regardless of public perception.
It is essential to remain aware of one’s worth, whether the relationship is softly launched or fully disclosed.
With reports from Alexis Fei Caceres
A MONTH before they leave for Malaysia, members of the P-pop boy group 1st One…
THERE comes a point when staying silent feels heavier than speaking up. It means standing…
NATIONAL UNIVERSITY (NU) Lady Bulldogs completed their historic title defense by sweeping the De La…
Los Angeles, United States: The Indiana Pacers came from behind to send the Cleveland Cavaliers…
Vatican City, Holy See: Pope Leo XIV on Wednesday offered to mediate between leaders of…
When you hear the word "pageant," chances are you picture evening gowns, tiaras, and sparkling…