The only non-debatable post to this point in the history of StonesJournal introduces you to the best emojis to use in the New Year. Enjoy and take notes.
Written By: AJ Stone (1/4/26)
My top five emojis heading into 2026:
5: 🦦
- The otter emoji embodies the kind of laid-back attitude we all wish we could adopt. Be one with the otter. Accept the Otter. Don’t fear the otter. He’s just here for a good time, not a long time. The otter can be used to create a chill atmosphere in a serious setting.
Example of use:
Boss: You haven’t been on time to work once this week. If it happens again, we’re gonna have to have a serious discussion.
You: Sorry bro, been hella 🦦 lately.
4: 😄
- Everyone should have a smile emoji in rotation. This one is my personal choice. I like to keep it light-hearted but enjoyable in trying times. Show a little teeth, close your eyes, light up the world with a smile!
Example of use:
Friend: Thanks for the $10,000! You’re amazing!
You: 😄
3: 🤙🏻
- Shaka is a good way to end a conversation, but what people don’t realize is that you can Shaka your way into a legit confab. Shaka has been underused and underappreciated for too long. A staple in the underground emoji industry, expect a big season from Shaka in 2026.
Example of use:
You: 🤙🏻
Brother: AJ, when you find success in writing, please don’t let the fame change you.
You: 🤙🏻 sounds good!
2: 🐦🔥
- An unexplainable force to be reckoned with, the Phoenix is an undying light in an ever-expanding universe. The true embodiment of life itself, a piece of the Phoenix resides in every one of us. When it dies and is reborn, those are the chills you get watching the scene from The Office when Jim kisses Pam for the first time. This bird is an elaborate living moment in time that finds a way to elicit tranquility in all manners of its existence. A truly monumental being from a higher plane of reality than the human brain can’t even begin to comprehend. Some refer to it as “God’s Torch” that he carries through the dark times humanity will constantly face. The light at the end of a never-ending tunnel that is society. Those who search for the Phoenix will only find a glimmer of light to guide them through hardship, but never the physical being of the godly flaming bird.
Example of use:
You: 🐦🔥
ESPN: You’ve got the job.
1: 🫶🏼
- I LOVE the heart hand emoji!!! It’s a fun way to show love to partners, friends, family, and anyone else who you want to bring a smile to! Why not share love? It’s such a gift to love everyone around you to the best of your own ability. Never value someone more than yourself, but always emit joy and love!
Example of use:
You: Love you guys!!! 🫶🏼
Group chat full of ex-girlfriends:
Samatha: Who is this?
Rebecca: Never text me again.
Alexis: ew…
John: love you too bro!
Thanks for reading through my list of my favorite emojis heading into 2026! Emojis have evolved so much since I was a kid. A massive and continuously expanding library of cute, picturesque icons that we can use to portray our emotions. What’s not to love? Happy New Year!
StonesJournal 
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