The rise of ‘de-influencing‘ on TikTok: Why some creators are telling you not to buy
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For years, TikTok has been a powerful engine for consumerism. A viral video could send sales of a product soaring – think Stanley cups, cloud slippers, or countless beauty items. But a new trend is emerging on the platform,one that’s pushing back against that constant stream of recommendations: “de-influencing.”
De-influencing isn’t about rejecting all products. Instead,it’s about critically evaluating what’s being promoted and encouraging viewers to avoid impulse purchases,especially of items that are overhyped or simply not worth the money. Creators are sharing videos pointing out products that didn’t live up to the hype,offering cheaper alternatives,or encouraging people to use what they already have.
“It’s about being more mindful of your spending and not falling for marketing traps,” says Ava Williams, a 24-year-old de-influencer with over 200,000 followers. “I want people to save their money and only buy things they truly need and will love.”
The trend seems to be a reaction to the oversaturation of sponsored content and the pressure to constantly consume.Many viewers express feeling overwhelmed by the sheer volume of products being pushed on them. De-influencing offers a refreshing option, prioritizing authenticity and financial obligation.
But the rise of de-influencing hasn’t gone unnoticed by brands. Some are concerned about the potential impact on sales, while others are trying to adapt by emphasizing product quality and value.
Interestingly, even the act of “de-influencing” can sometimes lead to purchases – just of different products. A creator recommending against a pricey moisturizer might suggest a more affordable dupe, still driving sales, but towards a different brand.
Despite this potential for continued consumerism,the de-influencing trend represents a importent shift in the dynamic between creators,brands,and consumers on TikTok. It’s a sign that viewers are becoming more discerning and demanding more clarity from the influencers they follow. It remains to be seen whether de-influencing is a fleeting moment or a lasting change in the landscape of social media marketing, but for now, it’s offering a welcome dose of realism in a world often dominated by carefully curated online personas and endless product promotions.
Chile Elects Hardline Conservative José Antonio Kast as President
SANTIAGO, Chile – Chile has taken a decisive turn to the right after José Antonio Kast, a hardline conservative, won the country’s presidential runoff, following a campaign dominated by fears over crime, migration and economic uncertainty.
With over 95% of ballots counted, Kast, the leader of the Republican Party, secured roughly 58% of the vote.
His rival, Communist Party candidate Jeannette Jara who received just over 41% of the vote, called to concede defeat and wrote on social media, “Democracy spoke loud and clear.” Outgoing President Gabriel Boric also phoned Kast to congratulate him.
as results were confirmed, the streets erupted with honking car horns, and crowds waving Chilean flags packed one of San
The Rise of ‘Quiet Quitting’ and What It Means for Work
you may have heard the term “quiet quitting” circulating online.It’s sparked a lot of debate,and for good reason. But what does it actually mean? And why is it resonating with so many workers right now?
Essentially, quiet quitting isn’t about actually quitting your job. It’s about doing exactly what your job description requires, and nothing more. It’s rejecting the idea of going above and beyond,of constantly being “on,” and of blurring the lines between work and life.
The trend gained traction on TikTok, where users began sharing videos about setting boundaries at work and pushing back against hustle culture.It’s a response to years of being told to prioritize work above all else, often without commensurate reward or recognition.
Why is this happening now?
Several factors are contributing to the rise of quiet quitting. The pandemic forced many to re-evaluate their priorities, leading to a greater emphasis on work-life balance. Burnout is also a major driver. Many employees feel overworked and underappreciated, and quiet quitting is a way to protect their mental health and energy.
Furthermore, a tight labor market has given some workers more leverage to demand better conditions.They’re less willing to sacrifice their well-being for a job that doesn’t value them.
Is it a good thing?
That’s a complex question. For employees, quiet quitting can be a healthy way to set boundaries and prevent burnout. It can also be a temporary solution while they search for a more fulfilling job.
though, it’s not without potential downsides. Some worry it could hinder career advancement or lead to negative perceptions from employers.
From an employer’s outlook, widespread quiet quitting can signal deeper issues within the organization – problems with management, compensation, or company culture. It’s a wake-up call to address employee concerns and create a more supportive and engaging work habitat.
What can be done?
The solution isn’t simply to shame or dismiss quiet quitters. Instead, employers need to listen to their employees and understand why they’re disengaging. This means fostering open interaction, providing opportunities for growth and progress, and recognizing and rewarding hard work.
Ultimately, quiet quitting is a symptom of a larger problem: a work culture that often prioritizes productivity over people. Addressing that underlying issue is key to creating a more sustainable and fulfilling work experience for everyone.
José Antonio Kast Elected President of Chile, Signaling a Rightward Shift
José antonio Kast has been elected President of Chile, marking a significant political shift for the country after years of left-of-center governance. His victory reflects a broader trend in Latin America where security and migration are increasingly prominent electoral issues. Kast will assume office on March 11,2026.
Political Background and Ideology
Kast is a staunch conservative and openly admires former dictator Augusto Pinochet. He will be the first president since Chile’s return to democracy in 1990 to openly support the military regime that ruled the country from 1973 to 1990. His father, Michael Kast, emigrated to Chile in 1950 after serving in the German army during World War II and being a member of the Nazi Party. https://www.reuters.com/world/americas/chiles-jose-antonio-kast-wins-presidential-election-2025-12-20/
Kast’s political platform centers on conservative social values, economic liberalism, and a hard-line stance on immigration.He has consistently advocated for stronger law enforcement and a reduction in government spending.
Immigration Policy
A key pledge during his campaign was a commitment to address illegal immigration. Kast has stated he will give undocumented migrants until his inauguration date, March 11, 2026, to leave the country, warning that those who remain will face deportation or prosecution. https://www.bbc.com/news/world-latin-america-67641999 This policy has drawn criticism from human rights organizations.
Regional and International Reactions
Kast’s election has garnered reactions from across the political spectrum.
* United States: U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio congratulated Kast on his victory, expressing washington’s desire to “partner with his management to strengthen regional security.” https://twitter.com/SecRubio/status/2000347698726330735
* argentina: Javier Milei, the libertarian President of neighboring Argentina, celebrated kast’s win as evidence that Latin America is rejecting “21st century socialism.” https://twitter.com/javierlanari/status/2000346228371132427
Implications for Chile
kast’s victory is expected to considerably reshape Chile’s political landscape. his administration is likely to pursue policies that roll back some of the social and economic reforms implemented by previous left-leaning governments. Analysts predict potential changes in areas such as pension reform,healthcare,and education. https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2025/12/21/jose-antonio-kast-wins-chiles-presidential-election
Image Credit: JAVIER TORRES/AFP via Getty Images
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