I Asked ChatGPT What “Doing It for the Plot” Means...

I’ve been hearing the phrase “doing it for the plot” everywhere recently. It seems to come up on my TikTok feeds loads. especially from those creators who in December refelcted on they 2024 about what they did 'for the plot'.

Even from the 'kids' in the office - I call them that, as I think in their eyes, I am the 'real grown up'. Little do they know......

Anyway, I digress.

So examples I have heard of doing things 'for the plot' include:

"Going on the date with the guy with red flags —for the plot,”

"I’m texting my ex back—for the plot.”

Now, I like to think I’m relatively up to speed on things, but sometimes things sneak by me.

So, I asked ChatGPT for some help.

Here’s what it came back with:

"When Gen Z says they’re doing something “for the plot,” they mean they’re making a decision or taking an action—often bold, fun, or a little chaotic—that will make their life story more interesting or memorable. It’s about embracing an experience, even if it’s risky or unconventional, simply because it adds excitement or spice to their personal narrative."

I love this explanation.... I really do think that the kids might be onto something with this one.

The way I understand it, is like saying, “Why not? Because it will make a good story later.”

I'm glad I asked ChatGPT though, because it has been a great reminder that maybe I need to lean into spontaneity a bit more and embrace life’s twists and turns, even if it means making questionable decisions now and then.

But here’s the thing: As much as I’d like to embrace this “for the plot” energy, I have to admit—I’m not sure I have anything particularly plot-worthy going on at the moment.

I almost sent a funny meme to my ex last week “for the plot” but stopped myself because… well, I remembered the last conversation we had, which involved him talking about saving money for his wedding. (Probably not the kind of plot twist I want to create for myself.)

So what would my “for the plot” move be? Booking a last-minute holiday? Signing up for rock climbing classes?

Honestly, it’s hard to say.

My personal brand has always been more “catching flights, not feelings,” so maybe I might need something a bit more 'out-of- charactef' - ha!

You know what I love most about the idea of 'doing it for the plot' is the idea that does an incredible job of rebranding life’s risks and chaos.

It’s not about the outcome; it’s about the experience. Because it is the story you’ll tell later, the way it adds real colour to your life.

So I think I might be setting myself this year. Say yes to the things that make me a little uncomfortable, the things that feel unexpected or uncertain.

Because who knows?

Maybe the 'plot' is where the magic happens.