What is Lucky Girl Syndrome and why is the TikTok trend causing a stir?

What is Lucky Girl Syndrome? 

In true viral fashion, the trending hashtag on TikTok has garnered both love and disapproval—and nearly 75 million views in the process. While some manifest with crystals or wait for the next new moon to set their intentions, others bestow their good fortune upon their social media followers. 

On the heels of the main character energy dating trend is this self-focused motto that some TikTokers swear by and others completely dismiss. If you're curious about what's happening on your FYP, we have you covered.

What is Lucky Girl Syndrome?

Lucky Girl Syndrome is relatively straightforward: believing in something until it becomes a reality. It's about flipping the script and allowing yourself to think that the universe will work in your favor.

"[It] seems to combine aspects of the Law of Attraction (which many millennials may know as The Secret) and several different psychological approaches, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, positive psychology, the practice of gratitude and daily affirmations," says Sadaf Siddiqi, a psychotherapist and consultant.

Women will take to the platform to show that their dreams have come to fruition, be it landing a new job or working through a breakup with ease, whatever the case might be. As mentioned, the 75 million-plus views prove that the trend can be subjective, but there is a reason to get behind it. 

"As a psychotherapist, I support all of the psychological approaches above because they are evidence-based and I have personally observed their impact on my clients in private practice," Siddiqi adds. 

Likewise, author Andrea Mein DeWitt, who just released Name, Claim & Reframe: Your Path to a Well-Lived Life, believes that confidence is key when taking on this type of practice.

"It starts with believing that the woman just under your skin has what it takes. If you listen to her more than your inner critic, you're gold," DeWitt tells us.

@kaitlinvillatoro

♬ Keeping Your Head Up (Jonas Blue Remix) [Radio Edit] - Birdy

Who created Lucky Girl Syndrome?

The term derived from Laura Galebe, the self-described "Lucky Girl" who states in her TikTok profile, "I’m the niche and i give good advice." Her videos range from daily reminders to manifesting tips and the occasional bathing suit selfie. My Imperfect Life reached out to Galebe but did not hear back at the time of publication.  

@lauragalebe

♬ original sound - Laura Galebe

Does the Lucky Girl Syndrome actually work?

While yes, the manifestation technique can change your outlook, it's important to recognize that there are a few deal-breakers to make it work.

Firstly, you cannot wish something into existence without having put in the effort. Mein DeWitt says you have to work for what you want and earn it. She believes that celebrating success is fulfilling—"infectious"—but that "doesn't mean [women] didn't put in the work to get there."

Additionally, she notes the importance of gratitude and feeling a sense of appreciation for reaching your perceived level of success. 

On the other hand, Siddiqi believes that in order for Lucky Girl Syndrome to actually work, we need to take on a realistic approach.

"One of the dangers of this “syndrome” is that it’s rooted in the idea that a person’s thoughts and assumptions are what create their reality—this is problematic because assumptions can allow the brain to create false narratives," she says. 

Siddiqi continues: "As humans, we all have cognitive biases that sometimes lead us to see things as we want to, instead of how they really are. This makes me wonder if people are using this 'strategy' to shift their mindset, how are they also balancing it to stay rooted in reality?"

Lucky Girl Syndrome affirmations

According to Dalila Salgueiro, an evolutionary astrologer and founder of the Manifesting App, Lucky Girl Syndrome affirmations "encourage your mind to inhabit the reality you've been trying to create." This can range from a new job to a different relationship. 

A few examples she mentions include: 

• "I am happy to be working in my dream job"
• "Everything works out in my favor"
• "I am living my dream every day"
• "I am the luckiest person alive"

Get grounded with meditation or breath work and dive into your affirmation. 

Lucky Girl Syndrome manifesting

Furthermore, Salgueiro reiterates others' thoughts and insists manifesting can only happen to those who work for their goals and appreciate where they're coming from. She suggests putting a focus on the positives in your life by writing out a gratitude journal. With that shift in perspective, you're more likely to feel hopeful about whatever it is you're trying to manifest. 

Why is the Lucky Girl Syndrome causing a stir?

Some believe luck is being confused with privilege and that the women posting these videos are not taking into account the biases, racism, ageism and so forth that might prevent one person from achieving their goals: "'Pretty privilege' got you that second date." "Your surname landed you a job interview." Now the mantra has taken on an entirely new meaning. 

The bottom line is the simple idea has become quite the opposite, as evidenced by our FYPs. Whether or not you agree with the technique, one thing's for sure: it's certainly gotten everyone talking. Will you be giving it a try?