Social Media Celebrates Adult Nerdy Hobbies After Viral Tweet
When a young adult named @pyrarity posed a question on social media about whether it is acceptable to have “extremely nerdy hobbies” as an adult, the response was overwhelmingly positive. The tweet, which asked if it was alright to still love plushies and collect Pokémon cards at over 18 years of age, garnered 8.8 million views and spurred a flood of supportive comments and photographs from users showcasing their own collections.
Many respondents reassured @pyrarity that embracing these interests is not only acceptable but encouraged. They emphasized that adulthood brings the freedom and financial means to pursue passions without seeking validation from others. Images of meticulously arranged collectibles and cozy rooms filled with stuffed animals filled the comments, demonstrating a shared appreciation for these so-called “nerdy” pursuits.
Reclaiming Joy in an Age of Judgment
The question posed by @pyrarity reflects a broader cultural phenomenon among younger generations, particularly Gen Z and Gen Alpha. Many young people grapple with the fear of being perceived as “cringe,” which can stifle genuine self-expression. A recent article in Rolling Stone highlighted how this label is often weaponized in online spaces, discouraging individuals from trying new hobbies or openly enjoying their interests.
Ocean Vuong, a celebrated poet and professor at New York University, has witnessed this mindset among his students. In an interview with ABC News, he shared that many express a desire to pursue their dreams but hesitate due to fear of judgment. “They say, ‘I want to be a good writer, but it’s a bit cringe,’” Vuong noted. This reluctance to show effort or enthusiasm leads many to adopt a façade of irony or detachment, masking their true passions.
Despite these challenges, there is a growing movement pushing back against the stigma of being “cringe.” Memes like “I am cringe, but I am free” have emerged as affirmations of self-acceptance, encouraging individuals to embrace their interests without shame. Vuong emphasized the importance of fostering environments where sincere efforts are welcomed and celebrated rather than mocked.
A Community of Acceptance
The responses to @pyrarity’s tweet illustrate that such supportive spaces do exist and are thriving. Adults from various backgrounds shared their own experiences and collections, creating a sense of community among those who, like @pyrarity, find joy in their hobbies.
One user, @jessmcmxci, remarked, “Yep. I have some Pokémon Cards, my single star & double star Hunter Licenses, a bunch of Hello Kitty Stuff, a few stuffed animals & I’m nerdy about my hobbies and interests. It’s completely ok lol.” Others echoed this sentiment, celebrating their passions with pride and encouraging each other to enjoy life beyond societal expectations.
Another participant, @gilmxres, expressed frustration with the notion that adulthood should equate to a mundane existence. “I hate that everyone thinks your life is just supposed to be mundane and boring once you’re an adult. Enjoy your nerdy hobbies and interests!! Who cares!! We’re on a floating rock in space,” they wrote.
As the online conversation continued, @pyrarity acknowledged the outpouring of support, stating, “Hihi I can’t reply to everyone but thank you so much for not making me feel alone. It makes me so happy to see people embrace themselves and their hobbies—we really are all just a bunch of nerds.”
This viral interaction not only highlights a shift in societal attitudes toward adult hobbies but also demonstrates the power of social media to foster acceptance and community among individuals who share similar passions.
