Why We Stopped Saying It With Words
Sending a Reel however, requires almost nothing. It’s lighthearted, hilarious and easy. They can watch it in 10 seconds, laugh and then move on. However, there is an underlying message. You were on my mind and took the effort to send them.
It’s the perfect way to send a soft message to someone who grew up in a generation of being both genuine and sarcastic.
The reality hidden Behind the Sent Reel.
Every Reel that is sent means something. Most of us can instantly decipher what they mean:
‘This is literally you It’s a soft tease. You know them so well that you recognised their personality in someone else’s video. There really is no greater compliment!
‘This is literally us They’re sharing a private joke between the two of you. Whether it’s two best friends who always argue over the last bit of food or two people who have a very specific chemistry. This means that you have your own language between the two of you and this video speaks it.
Saw this and thought about your situation A subtle way of showing support. It could be a comforting reminder that they’ve had a bad week or a hilarious take on something they both struggle with. You’re thinking about them.
Come here, we need to do this Whether it’s a holiday idea, coffee shop, recipe or location. This means you’re planning your future with them in it.
No caption needed This is the most personal Reel. It doesn’t need any explanation. You’ll understand and always do.
‘I know it’s late but this is important Sent at 1am with no context. It means you’re up, thinking about them and it made you smile.
All of these messages have a meaning behind them. They create a whole language of care using short videos.
The Anxiety of Watched & Reacted
However, this does cause some anxiety
When you send someone a Reel, you get anxious about how they will respond. Did they watch? Did they laugh? Did they give a heart or leave it on seen? You almost feel a slight sting when they don’t react to your carefully picked video. However if they send you a Reel back, you feel a nice glow. This is the real compliment! You’re having a full conversation using short videos.
Why It’s Popular With Indian and American Gen Z
Whilst it’s slightly different depending on where you are, the underlying message is the same.
Many of us in India grew up in a culture of forwarding messages. We would always send someone a message whether it was a good morning, motivational quote or a video with our family. Reels have evolved this tradition. Instead of a generic message, we pick something specific for the person.
Reels are the easiest way to keep a friendship warm without having time to call.
It fits with our lifestyle.
When Reels Take Over
On the flip side, whilst it’s a lovely way to show someone you’re thinking about them, they can become a substitute for a meaningful conversation.
If every time you talk to a friend it’s a constant flow of videos and emojis with no actual catch up, it can make you feel like you’re quite far away from them. Whilst you know what makes them laugh, you don’t really know how they’re feeling. Whilst you know their taste, you don’t know their worries.
While it can be seen as comedic, there is actually something very sweet about sending mini videos to show how much you care. Taking time out of your potentially never stopping content to send just one piece of content to someone means you are showing them some attention.
– Aira 🌿
