How to Get Over the Cringe: Embrace Your Online Journey with Confidence
Some years ago, I went viral—and I hated it. That deep, unsettling feeling took over; the cringe was real. I felt exposed and vulnerable, like everyone was staring at me, judging. My immediate reaction? Hide. The thought of deleting my videos and just disappearing sounded so tempting. I didn’t even want to watch my own videos; to this day, it’s sometimes hard for me. But I stayed, and I learned to embrace the discomfort because I realized: the cringe was part of the journey to growth.
The truth is, we all cringe at ourselves sometimes. It’s natural. But with every post, every video, every bit of content, I learned to see that cringe as part of becoming my authentic self online. Here’s what’s helped me—and how it can help you, too.
Why We Feel Cringe (and How to Flip It)
Cringe often emerges as a reaction to vulnerability. When we share something personal or step into the unfamiliar, our brains can trigger feelings of discomfort. This response is rooted in our psychology; we’re hardwired to seek safety and avoid potential judgment. Cringe is a sign that you’re stepping outside your comfort zone, challenging yourself, and creating something meaningful.
Instead of shying away from that feeling, reframe it. Embrace the idea that feeling cringe means you’re doing something important—something that will stand out. It signifies growth and transformation.
The very act of creating and sharing pushes the boundaries of what feels safe, and that’s where the magic happens. When you lean into those feelings, you not only break through your limitations but also make your content more relatable and impactful.
Reframe Your Inner Dialogue
When you start to feel embarrassed or critical of yourself, notice it but reframe it. Instead of thinking, “People are going to think this is weird,” try, “This is me, sharing my story, and it’s helping me connect.” Shift the narrative from fear of judgment to an understanding of connection. You’re putting your authentic self out there, which is a powerful act that people appreciate and relate to.
Remember: The Audience Wants Your Realness
People connect with authenticity far more than perfection. Think of the influencers and creators you admire. Odds are, they aren’t perfect either, but that’s part of their charm. Allow yourself to show up as you are; remember, your audience isn’t looking for perfection—they’re looking for realness. Cringe often signals that you’re being vulnerable, and vulnerability is what connects us all.
Practice is Key
The more you show up online, the more confident you’ll become. Treat each post and video as an exercise in authenticity. The cringe will start to fade as you get used to being visible and owning your space. Practicing makes the process feel normal and empowers you to keep showing up.
Focus on the Impact, Not Perfection
Whenever I feel self-conscious about my videos, I remind myself: it’s not about me; it’s about the message and who it’s reaching. Think about the people who benefit from your insights, your humor, your story. Focusing on their experience takes the pressure off you to be perfect. Instead, you’re there to serve and inspire.
Final Thoughts: Embrace the Journey
Every time you feel a little cringe, take it as a sign of growth. You’re stepping out of your comfort zone, and that means you’re evolving. The journey to being comfortable online isn’t instant, but with each small step, the cringe becomes just another part of the story you’ll tell one day.
