Cringe, Courage, and the Words we Struggle to Find

Inspired by Ocean Vuong’s interview on ABC News Australia

“They perform cynicism because cynicism is often read as intelligence.
Ocean Vuong in conversation with, ABC News Australia’s 7.30 program.

This line, spoken by author and poet Ocean Vuong in a recent interview on ABC News Australia, has been sitting with me all day.

He spoke about how cringe culture, this fear of being seen as too sincere or too earnest can hold young people back. And as I listened, I found myself nodding. Deeply.

I’ve been thinking about how we sometimes shrink away from sincerity not because we don’t feel deeply, but because we’re afraid of being seen as “too much.” We perform detachment. We perform coolness. And in doing so, we hold back the softest, realest parts of ourselves.

I admire people who can say things beautifully. Who know how to wrap truth in words.

But if I’m being honest, there are many times I don’t have words for the things that cross my mind. I carry insights I don’t always know how to shape. But I feel them deeply.

Maybe that’s where it all begins.

Maybe we don’t need to sound perfect. Maybe showing up with what we can say, in the moment is enough.

So here I am, saying something.🕊️

If this resonates with you, you’re not alone. Drop a thought in the comments or share with someone who needs the reminder: sincerity is strength.

#thrivewithyisha

#vulnerabilityiscourage

#cringeculture

#oceanvuong