trans·form
/tran(t)sˈfôrm/
verb.

a. make a thorough or dramatic change in the form, appearance, or character of.
b. the product of a transformation.

Autumn is my most favourite time of year. Give me a quiet, cozy spot with a view of the changing trees, a warm drink, and a good book and I will be in absolute heaven.

But I have a bone to pick, here.

This season also seems to be the time of year when people start criticizing others for appreciating the very things I named above. The phrase “basic white girl” can be overheard in conversation or read on social media almost daily.

For those of you who don’t know, the term “basic” is used to describe someone devoid of defining characteristics that might make a person interesting or extraordinary. More simply, this is a person not worthy of your time and attention.

People often use this phrase to describe their frustration with girls who get excited about the comeback of sweater weather and everything pumpkin spice. Typically, this phrase diminishes the value of a girl simply because her actions are expected. Every girl ends up in the same category, due to an ignorance of all the little things that make her unique.

So, guys, let’s stop referring to the girl next door as ‘basic.’ Let’s start looking for the little things that make her special. Don’t make her feel like less of a person just because she is a little bit predictable. Goodness knows a little predictability will help you earn some major points later on.

Ladies, please do not let others make you feel any less than you are simply because you happen to like the same things that other girls do. Having similar interests does not make you uninteresting, rather it allows you to make connections with others. Think of it as a conversation starter, a piece of common ground on which to stand.

You like sipping on a warm PSL from Starbucks? Enjoy!
You feel cozy and confident in an oversized scarf and tall boots? Rock it!
You want to Instagram these moments? Be my guest.

And hey – if none of those things are your style, that’s perfectly okay, too.

No judgment here.

As the seasons change, let’s transform our thinking. Let’s look at ‘basic’ a little more positively. Rather than an uninteresting sameness, let it be a comforting simplicity. Let basic be a reminder to breathe, to enjoy the small things, and to be thankful for all that we have.

And if none of that positivity works for you, then maybe it’s time to stop using the phrase altogether.