Whimsy is the word of the moment. So, I added more of it to my life. Here's what happened.
Business Insider
February 14, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Business Insider reporter Samantha Pettyjohn turned to whimsy in early 2026 as a way to combat her struggles with grief, health issues, and the weight of constant negative news. Finding herself overwhelmed by personal losses—approaching the 10th anniversary of her mother’s death and recent loss of her grandmother—Pettyjohn sought a way to lighten her mood. As her social media feeds flooded with posts about whimsy, she decided to embrace this trend, which emphasizes childlike joy and playful creativity, as a potential solution.
Whimsy, described by experts like Jenna O’Brien and Angelina Draper, is more than just a lifestyle trend; it’s about reconnecting with the simple pleasures of life. For O’Brien, whimsy means pursuing joy through playful acts, like hosting themed dinner parties or designing colorful stationery. Draper sees whimsy as an antidote to modern stress, helping people find levity in difficult times. These insights resonated deeply with Pettyjohn, who wanted to create meaningful moments of happiness in her own life.
Pettyjohn’s experiment involved a series of small, intentional changes: creating mood-based playlists, sending handwritten letters, and hosting fun gatherings with friends and family. These activities not only lifted her spirits but also strengthened her connections with others. By embracing whimsy, she discovered the power of small, joyful moments to counteract sadness and isolation.
For readers interested in business, the rise of whimsy highlights the growing demand for happiness-driven approaches to life and work. Companies that prioritize joy, creativity, and community can foster greater employee well-being and innovation. Pettyjohn’s story underscores how embracing playfulness and joy can be a valuable strategy for personal resilience and professional success.
Ultimately, Pettyjohn found that incorporating whimsy into her life was not just about aesthetics or trends—it was about reclaiming joy and finding ways to feel less alone in a challenging world. Her journey serves as an inspiration for anyone looking to inject more lightness and connection into
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Originally published on Business Insider on 2/14/2026