New Rules

YEJI's song 'New Rules' is a powerful anthem of self-empowerment and personal growth. The lyrics depict a struggle with a toxic relationship where the protagonist is caught in a cycle of emotional turmoil. The opening lines, 'Talkin' in my sleep at night, makin' myself crazy,' set the stage for the internal conflict and the desperate need for change. The protagonist acknowledges the detrimental impact of their love interest, who makes them feel special yet does not reciprocate the love, leading to a painful realization and the need for self-imposed rules to break free from the cycle.

The chorus introduces the 'new rules' that the protagonist has set for themselves as a means of self-discipline and recovery. These rules are practical steps to avoid falling back into the toxic relationship: not picking up the phone when the ex calls, not letting them back into their life, and not being their friend to avoid emotional entanglement. The repetition of 'I got new rules, I count 'em' emphasizes the importance of these guidelines and the effort required to adhere to them. It reflects the protagonist's determination to regain control over their life and emotions.

The song also highlights the process of internalizing these new rules. The lines 'Practice makes perfect, I'm still tryna' learn it by heart' and 'Eat, sleep and breathe it, rehearse and repeat it' illustrate the ongoing struggle and commitment to personal growth. This journey of self-improvement is not instantaneous but requires constant effort and reinforcement. YEJI's 'New Rules' serves as an empowering message for anyone trying to break free from unhealthy patterns and reclaim their sense of self-worth and autonomy.