Understanding the "maxxing" trend

B2
90 min
Premium
Video thumbnail
Scan to watchScan to watch
1

Think about these questions before watching.

  1. Many people strive to optimize different aspects of their lives, from their health to their hobbies. What areas do you personally focus on improving, and what motivates you to do so?
  2. Social media often showcases people's achievements and ideal lifestyles. How do you think this influences our own personal goals and expectations? Does it inspire you or create pressure?
  3. In an unpredictable world, some people find comfort in focusing on things they *can* control in their personal lives. Do you agree with this idea? What are some things you feel you have agency over, and why is that important to you?
2

Watch the video carefully. Pay attention to the main ideas and key details.

Video script93 segments · click a timestamp to jump

Changing your appearance to become more attractive?

"Looksmaxxing."

Make sure that the whites of your eyes and your teeth are

super white.

Eating more fiber?

That's "fibermaxxing."

Almost 25g of fiber in one meal.

That's almost my daily requirement.

Adding more books to your reading list this year?

You're "booksmaxxing."

Welcome to bookmaxxing 101.

Across social media, it seems like just about

everything can be "maxxed" these days.

Whatever your hobby, habit,

or goal, the objective is not just to do it,

but to maximize it to its full potential.

There are also industries betting on the phenomenon.

The global wellness market is expected to approach $10

trillion by 2030, and as consumers look for

new ways to improve themselves,

more companies are paying attention.

As "fibermaxxing" and "sleepmaxxing" take off,

brands are rushing to capitalize with everything

from high fiber popcorn and soda,

to supplements, sleep masks and skincare

promising better rest.

Whatever you're trying to maximize, there's probably a

product being marketed toward you.

So why has this trend become so popular?

Mental health experts I spoke with say the answer

may lie in the world around us.

We're living in very uncertain times in the

world, and when that happens,

what people tend to do is they tend to double down on

things that they believe are in their sphere of control

and the things that they have agency to change or to

augment or hone for themselves.

After years of economic uncertainty,

political division, and concerns about

everything from the cost of living to climate change,

many people are simply searching for things they

can actually control.

You may not be able to control inflation or the job

market, but you can control what you eat,

how you work out, and how much sleep you get

every night.

So that coupled with social media and sometimes deeply

comparison anxiety that comes with social media and

capitalism, of course.

These trends are a really good way for brands to sell

us products, you know, because most of the maxxing

trends do have sort of things that people have to

buy in order to take part in them,

whether that's gadgets or clothing.

According to experts, achieving a healthy version

of maxxing is all about approaching it with the

right mindset.

I think that maxxing in its sort of most literal

definition is inherently bad,

because it basically means to do something to an

extreme, to do something obsessively,

and that tends to have negative consequences.

So if people can hold the term maxxing quite lightly,

I think that that's a healthier way to kind of

look at it. Tips, I would suggest is

basically, a flexible mind is a healthy mind.

So psychological flexibility is a real cornerstone of

well-being. So for anyone who wants to try maxxing,

it's really important to know the difference between

being committed where possible and then being too

rigid. So that's why it's helpful to be realistic,

to sort of maybe push your comfort zone,

but not too much.

And if you write the kind of list that you're very

unlikely to achieve, you're not likely to keep

the habit going. So we have to think about

sustainability as well.

Like, is this sustainable?

I don't know, going to the gym seven times

a week. It's probably not sustainable for most people.

And there's research to show that going four times,

three times is also great.

Self-improvement isn't going anywhere,

and neither is the business built around it.

As companies continue finding new ways to sell us

better sleep, healthier diets,

and more productive mornings,

the pressure to optimize every corner of our lives

will probably only grow.

Which makes one question worth asking before you buy

into the next marketing trend.

Am I improving my life or just buying into the idea

that I always need improving?

3

Vocabulary

Vocabulary
These expressions will help you communicate more naturally about this topic.
Examples
Self-optimization — The act of improving oneself in various aspects (physical, mental, professional) to achieve the best possible state or performance.
This term is often used in discussions about personal development, wellness, and productivity. It carries a slightly formal or technical register.
To fall prey to (something) — To become a victim of something negative, often a trick, a harmful influence, or a difficult situation.
This idiomatic phrase is used to describe someone succumbing to a negative force. It's common when discussing marketing tactics, social pressures, or vulnerabilities.
To double down on (something) — To increase one's commitment, effort, or resources towards a particular action or strategy, especially when facing a challenge or uncertainty.
This phrasal verb implies a strong resolve. It's frequently used in business, politics, or personal contexts when someone decides to intensify their focus on a specific goal.
A sense of agency — The feeling that you have control over your own actions and decisions, and that you can influence the outcomes in your life.
This is a key concept in psychology and personal development. It describes the belief in one's ability to act independently and make choices that matter.
To keep up with the latest (trends/developments) — To stay informed about or participate in the most recent developments, fashions, or information.
This common phrasal verb often implies a continuous effort to remain current. It's frequently used in discussions about social media, technology, or consumer culture, and can sometimes suggest pressure.
4

Complete the sentences with words from the box. One word is extra.

Word bank
01The pursuit of "maxxing" often involves intense periods of as people try to refine every aspect of their lives.
02Without critical thinking, it's easy for consumers to the marketing hype surrounding new "maxxing" products.
03When faced with global uncertainties, many individuals tend to things within their personal control, such as fitness routines or skill development.
04Focusing on personal goals like "sleepmaxxing" can provide individuals with in an otherwise unpredictable world.
05It can be exhausting trying to all the new "maxxing" trends that emerge daily on social media.
5

Understanding the "maxxing" trend

Test your understanding of the 'maxxing' trend and related concepts from the video.

Match each item on the left with the correct item on the right.

A
B
6

Grammar: The causative (have/get something done)

Grammar
The causative structure (have/get something done) is used when we arrange for someone else to perform an action for us, rather than doing it ourselves. It's particularly useful when discussing services, repairs, or improvements, which are common in the 'maxxing' trend.
Examples
Many people involved in 'looksmaxxing' have their teeth professionally whitened.
This means a dentist whitens their teeth for them. They don't do it themselves.
To optimize their diet, some 'fibermaxxers' get their meal plans designed by a nutritionist.
'Get' is often used informally instead of 'have'. Here, a nutritionist creates the plan for them.
Instead of fixing their own sleep issues, 'sleepmaxxers' might have smart devices installed to monitor their environment.
This implies an expert or technician installs the devices on their behalf.
Key points
  • Use 'have' or 'get' + object + past participle (e.g., 'have my hair cut', 'get my car repaired').
  • 'Have' is generally more formal, while 'get' is more common in everyday speech.
  • Remember that the subject of the sentence is causing the action to happen, but they are not performing it themselves.
7

Rewrite each sentence using the causative structure 'have/get something done'.

01Many people pay professionals to whiten their teeth for a brighter smile, aiming for self-optimization.
Rewrite using the causative 'have'.
02To enhance their physical appearance, some individuals hire personal trainers to create custom workout routines.
Rewrite using the causative 'get'.
03After years of uncertainty, people often arrange for experts to assess their financial plans to regain a sense of agency.
Rewrite using the causative 'have'.
04Brands often pay marketing agencies to promote their new 'maxxing' products to keep up with the latest trends.
Rewrite using the causative 'get'.
05Some consumers ask specialists to install advanced air purification systems in their homes for better health.
Rewrite using the causative 'have'.
06To avoid falling prey to misleading claims, smart shoppers often ask independent labs to verify product ingredients.
Rewrite using the causative 'get'.
8

Error correction: understanding the 'maxxing' trend

Each sentence contains one error. Find and correct it.

01The video suggests that 'maxxing' trends offer people a sense of control on their lives.
Corrected version
The video suggests that 'maxxing' trends offer people a sense of control on over their lives.
02It's easy to fall prey for comparison anxiety when constantly seeing others' 'perfect' lives online.
Corrected version
It's easy to fall prey for to comparison anxiety when constantly seeing others' 'perfect' lives online.
03Experts advise that a flexible mindset is crucial for a healthily approach to self-optimization.
Corrected version
Experts advise that a flexible mindset is crucial for a healthily healthy approach to self-optimization.
04Companies are always finding new ways to get consumers buy their products for 'maxxing' their lives.
Corrected version
Companies are always finding new ways to get consumers to buy their products for 'maxxing' their lives.
05When facing economic uncertainty, many individuals tend to double down in areas they can influence.
Corrected version
When facing economic uncertainty, many individuals tend to double down in on areas they can influence.
06The pressure to optimize every corner of our lives will probably only grow, making us feel we always need improving.
Corrected version
The pressure to optimize every corner of our lives will probably only grow, making us feel we always need improving. to improve.
07With so many new 'maxxing' trends emerging, it's hard to keep up to the latest ones.
Corrected version
With so many new 'maxxing' trends emerging, it's hard to keep up to with the latest ones.
08The video warns against approaching 'maxxing' with an extreme or obsessive mindset, which can lead to negative consequence.
Corrected version
The video warns against approaching 'maxxing' with an extreme or obsessive mindset, which can lead to negative consequence. consequences.
9

Useful phrases: Discussing personal improvement goals and lifestyle trends

Vocabulary
When talking with friends or colleagues about personal growth, new habits, or popular lifestyle trends, it's helpful to have a range of phrases to express your opinions, share experiences, and engage in a nuanced conversation. These phrases will help you discuss the 'maxxing' trend and related topics naturally.
Examples
''Have you noticed how everyone seems to be 'maxxing' something these days?'' — Use this to open a conversation about the trend.
Register: Neutral/informal. Use this as a casual way to introduce the topic, perhaps after someone mentions a new habit or goal.
''I've actually been trying to double down on my reading lately. It feels good to focus on something I can control.'' — Use this to share your personal efforts in self-improvement.
Register: Informal/neutral. This phrase connects your personal actions to the idea of gaining 'a sense of agency' in uncertain times.
''I totally get what you mean about wanting a sense of agency. It's easy to feel overwhelmed by global issues.'' — Use this to express understanding or agreement with someone's feelings.
Register: Informal/neutral. Use to show empathy or agreement when someone expresses a desire for control over their life, linking to the core reason for 'maxxing' trends.
''While self-optimization is great, I sometimes worry about falling prey to unrealistic expectations from social media.'' — Use this to express a balanced or cautious opinion.
Register: Neutral. This phrase allows you to acknowledge the positive aspects of 'self-optimization' while also highlighting potential negative influences, like 'falling prey to' comparison anxiety.
''What are your thoughts on all these wellness trends? Do you think they're genuinely helpful, or just a lot of hype?'' — Use this to invite others to share their perspective.
Register: Neutral. This is a good way to engage the other person in the discussion and hear their opinion on the broader topic of 'maxxing' and wellness.
''Ultimately, I think it's about finding what works for you, rather than just trying to keep up with the latest fads.'' — Use this to offer a concluding thought or personal philosophy.
Register: Neutral. This phrase provides a thoughtful summary, suggesting a personal approach rather than simply trying 'to keep up with the latest' trends.
10

Understanding the "maxxing" trend

The video explores "maxxing," a trend where people intensely optimize aspects of their lives. This exercise delves deeper into the motivations and potential downsides of this modern pursuit of self-improvement.

Fill in each blank with the correct word from the word bank.

Word bank
The "maxxing" trend, a modern form of , encourages individuals to optimize every aspect of their lives. This phenomenon is often fueled by social media and a desire for a of agency in an unpredictable world. While striving for improvement is natural, there's a fine line between healthy ambition and becoming overly rigid. Experts caution against the pressure to constantly with the latest self-improvement fads, warning that trying to down on extreme goals can lead people to prey to unrealistic expectations. A balanced approach, emphasizing psychological flexibility rather than obsessive maximization, is to avoid the pitfalls of this trend.
11

Words to take with you

Vocabulary
These expressions are not in the video but will help you discuss this topic more fluently.
Examples
Pursuit of perfection — The continuous effort to achieve an ideal state or flawlessness.
This phrase describes an ongoing process or goal. It can be used in both positive and negative contexts, depending on whether the pursuit is healthy or obsessive. "The pursuit of perfection can be a powerful motivator, but it can also lead to stress and disappointment."
To strive for (something) — To make great efforts to achieve or obtain something difficult.
This verb emphasizes strong effort and determination towards a goal. It's often followed by a noun or an infinitive. "Many people strive for a balanced lifestyle and personal growth."
A relentless drive — A strong, continuous, and often unstoppable motivation or determination to achieve something.
This expression highlights an intense and persistent inner force. It can describe someone's character or their approach to a particular goal. "Her relentless drive to improve every aspect of her life was both impressive and a little overwhelming."
To feel inadequate — To feel not good enough, or that one lacks the necessary ability, quality, or status compared to others.
This phrase describes a common emotional state, often triggered by comparison. It's frequently used with prepositions like 'compared to' or 'in comparison with'. "Seeing perfectly curated lives on social media can often make people feel inadequate."
To set unrealistic expectations — To establish goals or standards that are too high, impractical, or impossible to achieve.
This phrase is often used to explain why someone might experience disappointment, frustration, or burnout. It can apply to oneself or to others. "Constantly trying to 'max' every area of your life can lead to setting unrealistic expectations for yourself."
12

Use the word in brackets to form a new word that fits each gap.

01
The 'maxxing' trend often promotes a constant drive for self- in various aspects of life.
02
Many consumers, seeking quick fixes, can fall prey to misleading marketing tactics in the wellness industry.
03
In times of global , people tend to double down on things they can control, as mentioned in the video.
04
For many, focusing on personal improvements provides a valuable sense of in a world that often feels chaotic.
05
Social media constantly pushes new ideals, making it challenging to keep up with the latest in self-improvement.
06
The video suggests that social media, with its inherent anxiety, fuels the popularity of 'maxxing' trends.
13

Discuss these questions with a partner. Try to use vocabulary from the lesson.

  1. The video suggests that the 'maxxing' trend is partly a response to global uncertainty, where people tend to double down on things they can control. Do you think this pursuit of self-optimization genuinely provides a sense of agency and reduces anxiety, or could it lead to new pressures and the feeling of falling prey to unrealistic expectations, especially with social media comparison?
  2. The video mentions industries capitalizing on the 'maxxing' trend. In your country or culture, are there similar trends or products heavily marketed towards self-optimization (e.g., in health, beauty, or productivity)? Do you feel pressure to keep up with the latest developments in these areas, and how do you decide what is genuinely beneficial versus what might be an unnecessary purchase or effort?
  3. Consider the idea of 'maxxing' a hobby or a personal goal. While the video highlights potential downsides, can there also be positive aspects to this intense focus on self-optimization? For example, could it foster discipline, lead to significant personal achievements, or help people develop a stronger sense of agency? Or does it inherently risk turning enjoyable activities into stressful obligations?