How to Embrace the Cringe and Find Comfort in Putting Yourself Out There

Overcoming the Fear of Cringe: A Cozy Journey Towards Self-Expression (With Broccoli Soup)

Ever felt a pang of cringe so sharp it made you question everything? You’re not alone. That feeling of vulnerability, the fear of judgment, and the haunting thought of making mistakes online have plagued many, myself included. But here’s the twist: learning to live with that discomfort can be life-changing. Let’s dive into how I embraced the cringe, overcame self-doubt, and started creating content—one small, deliciously awkward step at a time. Oh, and along the way, I made cozy broccoli soup because, why not?

1. Start Small: The Power of Low-Stakes Beginnings

A year ago, I began by sharing posts on a blog so secret that only my boyfriend and parents knew about it. This low-pressure environment gave me the freedom to experiment, make mistakes, and refine my voice. Starting with zero audience was liberating—it allowed me to focus on the craft rather than the judgment.

Key takeaway? Start small. Whether it’s a private blog, an anonymous social media account, or even journaling, giving yourself a safe space to practice is invaluable. Once you’re ready, expanding to a wider audience feels less daunting.

2. Be Patient with Yourself

When I started, writing a single article took me three weeks. And that’s okay. Instead of imposing rigorous goals, I allowed myself the time to find a rhythm. Slowly but surely, weekly posts became part of my routine. The same principle applies to any creative endeavor—progress isn’t linear, and that’s part of the beauty.

3. Gradual Expansion: Don’t Overwhelm Yourself

At first, I focused solely on writing. YouTube, Instagram, and other platforms could wait. By taking one step at a time, I avoided burnout and built confidence in each medium before branching out. This gradual approach helped me create sustainable habits and maintain my sanity.

4. Embracing Comfort: Two Powerful Tools

Cringe doesn’t vanish overnight—it’s a companion you learn to live with. Here’s how I manage it:

• Mindfulness: When discomfort strikes, I ground myself in the present. Feeling the tightness in your chest or the lump in your throat doesn’t mean disaster—it’s just your body’s reaction to stepping out of your comfort zone. Acknowledge it, breathe, and let it dissolve.

• Writing Through Overwhelm: Journaling helps me unpack feelings of doubt and turn them into clarity. By writing my fears down, I reduce their power and gain control.

5. The Myth of the “Perfect Time”

The internet loves motivational slogans like “The time will never be right, so start now!” While these can be helpful, they don’t apply to every situation. You’re the best judge of when to take the leap. Sometimes, laying a strong foundation—emotionally or logistically—comes first. Just be honest with yourself: are you preparing, or are you procrastinating?

A Cozy Culinary Break: Broccoli Soup for the Soul

Comfort doesn’t just come from personal growth—it can also come from a warm bowl of soup. While talking about vulnerability, I made a creamy broccoli soup that reminded me of the comfort my mom or grandma used to provide. Simple, nourishing, and delightful, this soup mirrored my journey: messy, rewarding, and full of flavor.

Recipe highlights:

1. Sauté garlic and ginger in olive oil.

2. Add fresh broccoli, homemade broth (or store-bought), and simmer until tender.

3. Blend until creamy, season with salt and pepper, and serve with toasted bread topped with blue cheese.

Closing Thoughts

Cringe is inevitable. But it doesn’t have to paralyze you. By starting small, giving yourself grace, and learning to manage discomfort, you can turn that cringe into creativity. So whether you’re writing, filming, or cooking broccoli soup, remember: the world doesn’t need perfection—it needs you.

Feeling inspired? Check out my other video on navigating creative fear—it might just be the push you need to start your journey. See you next week!

Share Your Thoughts!

Have you ever felt “cringe” holding you back? Let’s chat in the comments—I’d love to hear your experiences and what strategies have worked for you!

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