Burnt toast theory
 | It has been suggested that this article be merged into Silver lining (idiom). (Discuss) Proposed since September 2024. |
| It has been suggested that this article be merged into Blessing in disguise. (Discuss) Proposed since September 2024. |
The burnt toast theory is a mindset and parable that suggests that minor time-consuming inconveniences, such as burning and remaking toast before traveling to work, could avoid greater harm or lead to other positive outcomes.
The burnt toast theory provides an explanation for minor inconveniences, saying the time lost because of them leads to better overall events. The primary example (and namesake) used in explaining this idea is that burning and remaking toast in the morning could delay a person's drive to work enough to avoid their involvement in a traffic collision.[1][2] Another example is that waiting additional time at a coffee shop could cause a person to meet someone who would later make a significant impact on their life, such as a new friend or career connection.[3]
 "Monday morning thoughts..." by Ingrid (@offthe__grid) via TikTok |
The topic has notably been popularized by users of TikTok.[4] In January 2024, users online related the theory to the Alaska Airlines Flight 1282 accident that month, where the two seats next to a door plug that blew out of the plane were unoccupied, supposedly because those passengers were late for their flight.[5]
The burnt toast theory has received mixed reception, with proponents calling it a reminder to appreciate the insignificance of minor annoyances.[6] Some have also said the theory promotes a growth mindset, encouraging people to view difficulties as opportunities for improvement.[7] Conversely, some have seen the burnt toast theory as a modern trend of toxic positivity, the idea that people should remain happy even in traumatic situations.[4]
See also[edit]
References[edit]
- ↑ Bakshi, Pema (2023-09-07). "Lessons From The Algorithm: What We Could All Learn From TikTok's 'Burnt Toast Theory'". Grazia. Archived from the original on October 15, 2023. Retrieved 2024-07-30. Unknown parameter
|url-status=ignored (help) - ↑ DeGering, Nicea (2024-02-13). "How burnt toast can actually help you shift your mindset". KTVX. Archived from the original on July 30, 2024. Retrieved 2024-07-30. Unknown parameter
|url-status=ignored (help) - ↑ Berry, Shaeden (2024-01-16). "TikTok's Burnt Toast Theory Is All About Embracing Life's Frustrations". Refinery29. Archived from the original on January 30, 2024. Retrieved 2024-07-30. Unknown parameter
|url-status=ignored (help) - ↑ 4.0 4.1 Gifford, Bonnie Evie (2024-02-04). "What is burnt toast theory and how can it help us reframe life's inconveniences?". Happiful. Archived from the original on July 30, 2024. Retrieved 2024-07-30. Unknown parameter
|url-status=ignored (help) - ↑ Torres, Monica (2024-01-18). "Could The Viral 'Burnt Toast Theory' Explain Why Bad Things Happen To You?". HuffPost. Archived from the original on March 29, 2024. Retrieved 2024-07-30. Unknown parameter
|url-status=ignored (help) - ↑ Spranklen, Annabelle (2023-09-05). "What is TikTok's burnt toast theory that everyone is living their life by?". Glamour. Condé Nast. Archived from the original on July 30, 2024. Retrieved 2024-07-30. Unknown parameter
|url-status=ignored (help) - ↑ "What is TikTok's 'burnt toast theory', and why you must embrace it?". The Indian Express. New Delhi. 2024-01-06. Retrieved 2024-07-30.
External links[edit]
The dictionary definition of burnt toast theory at Wiktionary
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