Why is the internet obsessed with Punch?

Punch-kun, the baby monkey in a zoo in Japan, has become an internet sensation. Constantly found dragging around his emotional support orangutan plushie, running from older monkies that bully him. Well, update, he’s got a girlfriend now. And they look adorable. But, I still remember when everywhere i went on Insta, Punch was there. And so many hearts breaking for him in the comments, and views. But why? What is so emotionally drawing about Punch’s situation, besides the fact that his cute bullied self invokes the urge in most of us to protect him fiercely?

Let’s be for real. One of the major reasons we love Punch is because we’ve all been him at some point. Outcasts, on the sidelines socially, atleast once in our lives. His situation is relatable on a subconscious level. The same innocence and painful situation of being socially rejected. It’s why we want to protect him so bad, the same way we would have wished to protect child versions of ourselves. And rightfully so.

Social rejection is not an easy topic. It’s subtle and its stingy, or its loud and humiliating. Nobody likes being lonely without a choice. Hell, it’s even painful to watch. Bring in a cute little monkey cuddling a plushie orangutan, and clinging to his caretakers when they come in to distribute the feed, and suddenly you want to pack your bags, go to japan, and enter the monkey enclosure in a monkey suit and strategize social acceptance for Punch.

But the thing about Punch’s situation is, he’s not just lonely, he’s also pretty strong for it. And, he’s got a girlfriend right now, so that lonely is fading fast. I truly believe he will fit in soon enough, as for us? Well, there’s 8 billion people on Earth. You’ll find your people. But until then, it’s worth it to become the person you want to be. In character first, achievement second. That’s how you’ll start enjoying your company and attracting the right energy.

If you’re into building a life you find fulfilling, regardless of whether the path is conventional or not, you’re in the right place. This is where you’ll find people on the same journey. The Midnight Blueprint (TMB) is a guide to help you achieve your goals, and a way to connect with others doing the same.

Good luck traveller, let the year bring Punch and us joy and connection!