"It is not just an internet meme — it has evolved into a psychological coping mechanism that young people have developed to handle societal pressures and emotional deprivation," Huang said.
"It represents a psychological shift from seeking external validation to building internal support, reflecting a positive, adaptive way to cope with the challenges of modern life," Huang noted.
"This psychological shift holds positive significance. People who are good at listening to their inner voices and can take care of themselves tend to have healthier mindsets and more stable emotions. As a result, they're able to engage in learning, work and social interactions with a fuller, more composed attitude."
For Lin Mei, a 38-year-old single mother working in customer service, aini laoji is not just a concept.
She divorced five years ago and now lives with her child in a small suburban apartment. Her days are measured in commuting time, homework, grocery bills, parent-teacher messages, and constantly calculating how much energy to expend on these tasks.
"I don't really think about 'loving myself' in a big way," she said. "Most days, I just try not to collapse."
She encountered the phrase one night while scrolling social media after putting her child to sleep. "I remember thinking: this sounds like something for people who are already very tired."
When she was younger, she believed life was about achieving something important. Now she thinks it is more about not losing what you already have.
