LIFE

It's the new year and we are ready for it—cue the iconic instrumentals, pls! 

From fellow Swiftie to Swiftie, we've all been waiting for Taylor to drop reputation (Taylor's Version). And although we've gotten clowned here and there (jotting down secret letters in her Time photo shoot, dissecting every outfit she's worn in the past week, tracing snakes in the 1989 cover album), it's never too early to enter your own reputation era. 

If there's anyone who's an expert on "new year, new me," it's Taylor—aka, the queen of reinventing herself. Reputation is all about transformation, pushing boundaries and embracing your unapologetic and vulnerable self. And so for all the Rep girlies out there, we present your ultimate playbook to bringing that energy into the new year.

Cutting draining, delicate relationships

Taylor shows us that it's okay to let go of relationships that are no longer fulfilling. Whether you're dealing with a romantic or platonic relationship, *you* have the power over who's in your life. And we get it—it can be hard to let go of that close friend you've spilled all your secrets to, but don't be afraid to acknowledge that you will outgrow people (it means you're moving forward!). Good rule of thumb: If you have to constantly force it, it's probably not endgame. 

Embracing every "era" of yourself 

So it goes: You show that goofy side of yourself with a new group of people and immediately second-guess yourself...we've all been there. Here's a reality check: Everyone is wayyy too concerned with themselves to even think twice about that joke you made. This year, we're embracing every part of ourselves (the bookworm, the runner, the musical theater star)—and being *totally* unapologetic about it. 

Protecting your peace 

Call it what you want, but whether you're going total MIA on social media, stumbling home to your cats or saving an entire weekend for "me time," don't be afraid to do what it takes to protect your peace this year. If you're in your healing era, communicate that to your closest circles so there's a mutual understanding in your current relationships. Everyone needs a little time to reset, and tbh, it only makes the comeback *that* much better.   

Setting your (end) game plan

If there's one thing about Taylor, it's that she will always plan out quite literally anything. From countless easter eggs to her iconic revival in reputation, our girl definitely knows how to seize any moment. Tbh, it's hard to stick to your resolutions (guilty!), but setting a game plan is key to your Rep era. Try setting weekly doable goals for yourself in addition to some long-term goals—for example, if you want to run a 5K, start by running a mile once or twice a week. Let the games begin!

Experimenting with new rhythms in life

"X" marks the spot...where reputation introduced new sounds to Taylor's growing discography. As Taylor matures and transforms, so does her music. Reputation is about embracing growth and finding peace with yourself, so don't hold back from auditioning for that dance team or even trying out a new morning routine that switches up your daily rhythm a little. 

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Top image: @taylorerastour
Slider image: @taylorswift
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by Anne Chen | 1/29/2024