Embarassment

Embarrassment is that uncomfortable feeling you get when you think you’ve made a mistake or done something awkward in front of others. It’s normal and happens to everyone. It’s just your brain’s way of telling you you care about what people think but it doesn’t have to stop you from being yourself.
— Can Do Kiwis

What embarrassment really is

Embarrassment happens when you worry way too much about what others think—when honestly, they probably aren’t thinking about you that much.

Why we get embarrassed

  • We overthink what others might say or think about us, even if they don’t really care.

  • We feel like we messed up and imagine others judging us.

  • There’s a gap between how we see ourselves and how we think others see us.

  • We make our actions seem way more important to others than they actually are.

Example

If you trip in front of people, you might feel super embarrassed because you think everyone’s staring and judging. But most likely, they barely noticed or forgot about it seconds later.

How to deal with embarrassment

  • Be kind to yourself—everyone has embarrassing moments. Treat yourself like you would a friend.

  • Take deep breaths to calm down when you feel embarrassed.

  • Laugh it off if you can—it helps lighten the mood.

  • Face the situation instead of avoiding it—it helps you move on.

  • Think about what you can learn from the experience.

  • Do something fun or distracting to take your mind off it.

  • Talk to a friend who can support you and help you see things differently.

  • Challenge negative thoughts and try to think more positively.

  • Remember your strengths and what you’re good at.

  • Practice mindfulness—notice your feelings without judging yourself.

Everyone feels embarrassed sometimes. The trick is learning how to bounce back and keep being you with confidence.

Embarrassment Quiz
Discover how you handle embarrassing moments and learn ways to bounce back with confidence.

Don’t fear embarrassment, fear living a constrained and false life. If you are rejected for being true to yourself, then you are simply being divinely guided to move on to another level of community.
— Brendon Burchard