Goblin Mode Meaning Explained: Post-Pandemic Lethargy

Everything has returned to some degree of normal after two years of epidemic normality. The majority of the covid-induced regulations and limitations have vanished, but not everyone is pleased about it. In the face of a new normal, some people are uncomfortable with the idea of returning to the way things were pre-pandemic.

For many, the last two years have been a time of reflection and growth. The pandemic forced people to take a step back and assess what was truly important to them. As a result, many people have made lifestyle changes that they never would have considered before. Now that things are returning to normal, they worry that they will fall back into old habits and lose all the progress they’ve made.

Others are simply tired of being cooped up and long for the days when they could go out and socialize without fear. They miss being able to travel freely and experience all the world has to offer. The thought of returning to a world where they are constantly confined to their homes is unappealing.

Regardless of which side you fall on, it’s clear that the return to normalcy is not going to be easy for everyone. It will take time for people to adjust, and there will be some bumps along the way. But as long as we are willing to open our minds and accept change, we can make the transition to normality a success.

While most people have been waiting for the day when they may socialise, travel, and do regular activities without limits, others have come to rather enjoy their new life. Introverts all around the world are enjoying a new normal of working from home, living in comfortable clothes, and not having to speak to anyone. It’s called “recluse.” Goblin Mode Meaning Explained: Post-Pandemic Lethargy.

Goblin Mode Meaning Explained

After the pandemic, there’s a new phrase: “Goblin Mode.” It refers to the lethargic, slovenly, and antisocial behavior that many people are exhibiting post-pandemic. Staying in bed, wearing a tracksuit or your pajamas, watching continuous Netflix programs and endlessly scrolling through social media are all examples of being in “Goblin Mode.”

You have no intention of leaving your mire aside for the odd unhealthier meal, trip to the restroom, or to answer the door to the Dominos delivery guy. It’s a sensation we’re all too familiar with after spending so much time in confinement, but thankfully it’s only a short-term condition for most people who only turn on their “Goblin Mode” every now and again.

It’s Popular On TikTok

The origin of ‘Goblin Mode’ is somewhat uncertain, but it appears to have emerged from TikTok, like all strange fads these days. People on the platform frequently say things like “Goblin Mode has been activated” or “I’m currently in Goblin Mode.” They’re also prone to uploading videos of themselves sleeping in bed, lounging on the sofa, or rummaging for food.

The phrase “goblin mode” apparently originated from the idea that goblins are ugly, ferocious creatures who don’t care about their appearance. Dave McNamee, a Twitter user whose tweet about “Goblin Mode” went viral in February, told The Guardian:

“Goblin mode is like when you wake up at 2am and shuffle into the kitchen wearing nothing but a long T-shirt to make a weird snack, like melted cheese on saltines.”

“It’s about a complete lack of aesthetic. Because why would a goblin care what they look like? Why would a goblin care about presentation?” he further explained.

His tweet was a video of a cat messily eating and falling over with the caption: “When people say ‘goblin mode’ this is what they mean.” If you’re familiar with the phrase ‘couch potato’, think of ‘goblin mode’ as a far more extreme version.