Every year, hundreds of thousands of people travel to Times Square in Manhattan, New York, up to several days before New Year’s Eve to get the best view of the ball drop. As soon as the police gates open for the barricade of the Ball drop, countless people rush in for a spot. 

Once you’re in your spot, there’s no way to leave; moreover, if you leave and have to use the bathroom, you lose your spot. Consequently, many people turn to an extreme solution: adult diapers.

People stand outside for hours in freezing weather, wearing diapers, tightly squeezed next to thousands of strangers who are doing the same thing. What’s the point of hours of anticipation when it all ends in a ten-second countdown that feels disappointing?

Just to watch a ball drop. 

Yes, it does only happen once a year, and some may argue that it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience, but is it really? Watching a ball slowly drop doesn’t change depending on where you are. Whether you may be standing in Times Square or sitting on your couch at home across the country, you’re still experiencing the same thing.

 New Year’s celebrations don’t feel the same as they used to. The excitement and energy no longer feel the same, and many of the traditions have become repetitive and uninspiring.

They all follow the same routine. Everyone counts down, watches fireworks, cheers, texts their friends, and eats 12 grapes under the table, before sleeping late and rekindling memories from the previous year.

Instead of feeling excited about something fresh, many people feel pressured to enjoy the last night of the year because it’s “New Year’s Eve”. This is highly evident in social media, worsening the pressure. Floods of posts and videos that make people seem like they’re having the best night of their lives also add to this pressure, and many feel as if they’re doing something wrong if their own night is not as exciting. The best way to celebrate New Year’s is to step away from outside influences and intentionally create a personal night.

Over the years, New Year’s Eve has gone from being a meaningful night to a forgettable holiday. Instead of chasing social approval, the best way to celebrate New Year’s Eve is to step away from outside influences, reflect on personal growth, and celebrate it with personal intention.