This October, we’re taking a page out of the final girl’s book.
( Florence Pugh in Midsommar / IMBD Movies)
It’s officially spooky season, and not just because it’s time for midterms. Every October I live and breathe Halloween, so I like to incorporate a little bit of spine-chilling into my daily routine.
So who can we look to for inspiration and life advice in this time? The women of horror films, of course. It might seem like we could never possibly relate to the impossibly terrifying situations women endure in horror movies, but when we break it down, there’s important life lessons we can take from them.
There’s strength in numbers
You probably shouldn’t join a cult this October (or, ever, for that matter). But if you were to, a group of girls living their best lives and supporting each other would probably be the best bet.
Suspiria teaches us – in its strange, convoluted way – that working together is far superior than trying to tear others down. If one part of a system is broken, the whole thing will fail, which is probably the most random thing you could take from this horror film.
We could all use a little more compassion and humanity in these especially tough times, so make sure to check in on your friends once in a while. After all, that’s what the girl group of Suspiria would do.
You don’t have to be perfect to be great
We’ve all had those moments where as much as we give it our all, we still won’t let up until we’re perfect. Some of us, more than others. (I’m looking at myself.)
Nina from Black Swan teaches us this invaluable lesson through her own experience. Even if we think we’ve achieved “perfection,” at what cost?
Though you probably won’t turn into a swan like Nina, if you constantly strive for the impossibl, you will burn yourself out. Remember this spooky season to take everything in stride.
Never underestimate the power of a cute outfit
Most people would probably tell me that Wendy’s outfit in cult-classic horror film The Shining has nothing to do with the point of the movie, but I beg to differ.
Wendy Torrance’s chunky turtleneck and cozy corduroy dress serves me ‘I-can’t-believe-I-have-to-kill-my-psycho-husband’ chic. And I’m totally here for it.
Whenever you feel like you won’t be able to do that daunting task you’ve been dreading all week, take a page out of Wendy’s book and put on an outfit that screams “I’m killing it!” – figuratively, of course.
You don’t need a man to be content
As Jennifer Check once said: I am a god. This means you, too! It might be cuffing season, sure, but that doesn’t mean you need a man, or any romantic partner for that matter, to be happy.
Even though I wouldn’t resort to eating your potential romances, the wise and powerful Jennifer teaches us that there’s nothing wrong with spending some alone time with yourself.
So next time that you’re thinking of dialing up your ex, think about the sheer girl power and cultural reset of Jennifer’s Body instead, and maybe that’ll make you think twice.
Sometimes you need to put your needs first
Midsommar is the universal “good for her” film for a reason. When you think about it, the film is really about Dani becoming independent from all the toxic things in her life and living how she wants to.
Whether it’s leaving that no-good friend behind, or quitting a job you can’t stand, it’s important to recognize that you need as much care and support as everyone else. It’s not your job to be a people pleaser!
In no way am I advocating you join a terrifying Swedish cult, but if you want to do something less drastic, and you’re not sure if others will agree with it, listen to your own needs first.
Maya Lang is an Online Writer at Rowdy Magazine. She enjoys playing guitar, staying up far too late, and daydreaming about living in the '80s. You can reach her on Instagram at @mayaxlang for more info and movie recommendations.
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