The other day I saw this video of a professor talking about cringe culture—how being openly hopeful, positive, or ambitious somehow makes you the human equivalent of a “kick me” sign. Better to be nihilistic, detached, and “cool” than risk being seen trying.
And you know what? She’s right. We’ve built a culture where fear is fashionable. Fear of being judged. Fear of being canceled. Fear of failing so hard that you leave a crater.
But here’s the truth: fear’s only job is to keep you bland and “safe.” It’s that smoke detector that screams at burnt toast. It’s the backseat driver telling you to stay home and eat dry cereal instead of risking rejection, ridicule, or (God forbid) being seen.
Here’s the dirty secret nobody tells you: everyone’s afraid.The artists you admire? Afraid. Your favorite musicians? Nervous wrecks before a show. Even Beyoncé probably has a moment backstage wondering if her dress is too sparkly.
The difference is—they act anyway.
Fear has never written a book, painted a canvas, or built a business. It just sits there with its arms crossed, muttering “don’t.” The only way to shut it up is to do it anyway.
Start small. Post one piece of art. Play your song for one friend. Sell one hot dog. Each step is a hammer swing breaking the chains that hold you back.
Because you’re not here to live small. You’re here to make noise, make messes, screw up, learn, and grow. Fear will always be in the car—just don’t let it drive.
🎧 Hear the full rant on FWACATA’s Monday Motivation #29 over on Patreon — where chaos, comics, and creative rebellion live.
