Derogatory???

Lately, my circle feels crowded with standards and yardsticks for what defines a cool person. More than the actual qualities, it’s the red flags—what you should not be—that get all the attention.

And among them, the scariest accusations are:

“Cringe” and “Attention Seeker.”

I have a problem with these words because they challenge the very basics of who I am.

(This isn’t a general opinion—this is strictly personal.)

Sometimes, I am “cringe” (as per the current standards) simply because I’m expressing myself. Talking in a baby voice, always having a smile on my face, trying new stuff on social media, putting myself and my little ideas out in public—these are the things that get labelled as “cringe” in my circle.

But at least 30% of the people around me are appreciative—and that alone keeps me going. Whether it’s my mum, grandma, professors, juniors, or even strangers, their support has a real influence on me.

Even though it’s really, really hard to keep moving forward with constant reminders that I’m “cringe,” I try to hold on to the people who help me stay on my feet.

But what I still can’t fully process are the lazy smirks and tangy tones from the ones who call me an attention seeker.

Honestly, I used to be scared of that label.

Even now, it makes me uncomfortable.

But I’ve come to realise something:

It is completely normal for a person to seek attention.

Attention from the people around me makes me feel alive. It might not be the same for everyone, but as long as I’m not hurting anyone or masking bad intentions, I’d say—yes, I am an attention seeker.

I need it.

From my parents, my pets, my friends, my professors.

I even enjoy it when nature seems to notice me—like when a leaf falls over my head.

Maybe this is just my way of accepting myself in a hypercritical society.

And honestly, I’m trying.

Wish me luck 🤞