That's Not How This Works Meme: A Comprehensive Deep Dive Into The Viral Sensation

You’ve probably seen it floating around the internet, right? That iconic image with bold white text screaming "That's not how this works." It’s one of those memes that just sticks in your mind, whether you like it or not. But have you ever stopped to think about what makes this meme so dang viral? Why does it resonate with people? And most importantly, how can you harness its power for good—or at least a good laugh? In this article, we’ll break it all down for you, piece by piece, so you can truly understand why this meme is a cultural phenomenon.

Now, before we dive headfirst into the world of internet humor, let’s talk about why this meme matters. It’s not just some random image with text slapped on top. No sirree bob. This meme taps into something deeper—a shared understanding of miscommunication, misplaced logic, and the absurdity of life itself. It’s like a little slice of relatability served with a side of comedy.

And hey, if you’re here, chances are you’re either a fan of memes, someone who wants to know more about them, or maybe even a marketer trying to figure out how to use memes effectively. Whatever your reason, buckle up because we’re about to take you on a journey through the history, psychology, and sheer brilliance of "That's Not How This Works."

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What Exactly Is the "That's Not How This Works" Meme?

First things first, let’s define our terms. The "That's Not How This Works" meme typically features an image of a man shaking his head disapprovingly, paired with text that highlights a misunderstanding or incorrect assumption. The format usually goes something like this:

• Top text: A statement or idea presented as fact.
• Bottom text: A rebuttal starting with "That's not how this works" followed by an explanation of the actual situation.

This simple yet effective structure allows for endless creativity and humor. Whether it’s poking fun at everyday situations or critiquing societal norms, this meme has a way of hitting the mark every single time.

History and Origins of the Meme

Believe it or not, every great meme has a backstory, and "That's Not How This Works" is no exception. The meme originated from a screenshot of a character named Walter from the game "The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess." Walter was a minor NPC who became internet famous thanks to his signature head-shake and disapproving demeanor.

Fast forward to 2012 when redditors started using Walter’s image to create humorous captions. Initially, the meme gained traction slowly, but by 2015, it had exploded in popularity, becoming one of the most recognizable formats online. Today, it’s still going strong, proving that some memes truly stand the test of time.

Why Is This Meme So Popular?

Popularity doesn’t happen by accident, especially in the fast-paced world of the internet. So, what makes "That's Not How This Works" stand out from the crowd?

1. Relatability

People love memes that reflect their own experiences, and this one nails it. Who hasn’t encountered someone who just doesn’t get how things actually work? Whether it’s a friend making wild assumptions or a stranger spreading misinformation, this meme captures those moments perfectly.

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2. Simplicity

Let’s face it—simple memes are the best memes. The "That's Not How This Works" format is easy to understand and replicate, which makes it accessible to everyone. You don’t need to be a graphic design wizard to create your own version.

3. Versatility

From politics to pop culture, this meme can tackle almost any topic. Its adaptability ensures that it remains relevant no matter the context, keeping it fresh and engaging for audiences worldwide.

Psychology Behind the Meme

But why do memes like this resonate so deeply with us? According to psychologists, humor plays a crucial role in human communication. When we laugh, we release endorphins, which improve our mood and strengthen social bonds. Memes like "That's Not How This Works" tap into this natural response, creating a shared experience that brings people together.

Additionally, this meme thrives on cognitive dissonance—the mental discomfort we feel when faced with conflicting beliefs or information. By pointing out flaws in logic, the meme provides a sense of satisfaction and clarity, making us feel smarter and more informed.

How to Create Your Own "That's Not How This Works" Meme

Ready to join the meme-making revolution? Here’s a quick guide to help you get started:

Step 1: Choose Your Topic

Think about a situation where someone misunderstands something or makes an incorrect assumption. The more absurd, the better!

Step 2: Write Your Text

Structure your meme using the classic formula:

• Top text: The incorrect statement or belief.
• Bottom text: "That's not how this works" followed by the correct explanation.

Step 3: Add the Image

Use Walter’s iconic head-shake as your base image. If you’re feeling adventurous, experiment with other visuals that fit your theme.

Step 4: Share and Spread the Joy

Post your creation on social media platforms like Twitter, Reddit, or Instagram. Don’t forget to tag relevant hashtags to maximize visibility.

Real-Life Applications of the Meme

While "That's Not How This Works" might seem like just a bit of fun, it actually has practical applications in various fields:

1. Education

Teachers can use this meme to explain complex concepts in a relatable way. For example, instead of lecturing about photosynthesis, they could create a meme that corrects common misconceptions about plants.

2. Marketing

Brands often incorporate memes into their campaigns to connect with younger audiences. A well-timed "That's Not How This Works" meme can generate buzz and increase engagement.

3. Social Commentary

Activists and thought leaders use memes to highlight issues and spark conversations. By presenting facts in an entertaining format, they can reach wider audiences and inspire action.

Top 10 Examples of "That's Not How This Works" Memes

Here are some of the best examples of this meme in action:

1. Misunderstanding Gravity

Top text: "If I jump off a building, I'll fly like a bird." Bottom text: "That's not how this works. Gravity pulls you down."

2. Cooking Myths

Top text: "Microwaving food makes it healthier." Bottom text: "That's not how this works. Microwaving preserves nutrients, but it doesn't magically make junk food healthy."

3. Fitness Misconceptions

Top text: "Eating one salad will cancel out years of bad eating habits." Bottom text: "That's not how this works. Consistency is key."

4. Political Satire

Top text: "Lowering taxes always boosts the economy." Bottom text: "That's not how this works. It depends on various factors, including government spending and infrastructure investment."

5. Relationship Advice

Top text: "If I ignore my partner, they'll eventually stop being mad." Bottom text: "That's not how this works. Communication is essential in any healthy relationship."

6. Health Myths

Top text: "Vaccines cause autism." Bottom text: "That's not how this works. Countless studies have debunked this claim."

7. Environmental Awareness

Top text: "Recycling alone will solve climate change." Bottom text: "That's not how this works. We need systemic changes and collective action."

8. Career Misunderstandings

Top text: "If I work overtime, I'll automatically get promoted." Bottom text: "That's not how this works. Quality of work and leadership skills matter too."

9. Technology Misconceptions

Top text: "My computer will run faster if I turn it off and on again." Bottom text: "That's not how this works. While rebooting can help sometimes, regular maintenance and updates are crucial."

10. Pop Culture Critiques

Top text: "Every superhero movie needs a post-credits scene." Bottom text: "That's not how this works. Some movies end exactly where they should."

Impact on Internet Culture

Over the years, "That's Not How This Works" has become more than just a meme—it’s a cultural touchstone. It’s influenced how people communicate online, encouraging wit, creativity, and critical thinking. Moreover, it’s sparked countless spin-offs and variations, proving that the internet never runs out of ideas.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the "That's Not How This Works" meme is much more than a viral sensation—it’s a reflection of our shared experiences and collective humor. By understanding its origins, psychology, and applications, we can appreciate its significance in modern internet culture.

So, what’s next? Why not try creating your own meme or sharing this article with friends who love a good laugh? Remember, the power of memes lies in their ability to bring people together, so don’t be afraid to spread the joy. And hey, if you’re ever tempted to make an incorrect assumption, just remind yourself: "That's not how this works." Cheers!

Table of Contents

• What Exactly Is the "That's Not How This Works" Meme?
• History and Origins of the Meme
• Why Is This Meme So Popular?
• Psychology Behind the Meme
• How to Create Your Own "That's Not How This Works" Meme
• Real-Life Applications of the Meme
• Top 10 Examples of "That's Not How This Works" Memes
• Impact on Internet Culture
• Conclusion