UCanMakeItIfYouTry – How To Handle Embarrassment
TOP TIPS
Embarrassing situations happen to us all. The moment often fades quickly, but how you deal with it is a different issue. Some people struggle to overcome embarrassing moments, but you don’t have to let these little slip-ups control your life.
1 – Laugh at Yourself
Stop taking yourself so seriously. Try being the first person to laugh at your embarrassing moment. Sharing the moment with a trusted friend can make it easier to laugh.
2 – Give Yourself Some Grace
Don’t treat yourself so harshly. Give yourself some grace and compassion. Acknowledge what happened and remind yourself that you are more than any single moment.
3 – Remember That Was the Past
You can’t change what happened, so why are you thinking about it so much? Focus on what is happening now, and stop dwelling on the past.
4 – Let Go of the Perfectionism
Sometimes you may experience embarrassment because you failed to live up to a standard you set for yourself. While failure can be embarrassing, it is also an opportunity to learn and grow. Drop the perfectionism and embrace awkward moments.
5 – Stop Apologizing, Unless It Is Necessary
If you did something wrong, then, by all means, apologize for your mistake, and let it lie. Continually apologizing only reminds you of the embarrassing moment. It can also stop you from moving forward.
6 – Embarrassment Is a Normal Feeling
Just because you had an embarrassing moment doesn’t mean something is wrong with you. You are human, and being embarrassed is one of many emotions you will have.
7 – You Aren’t Who Others Think You Are
Many of us base our identity on what we believe others think about us. The reality is that much of the time, other people are not thinking about us at all. Why not put that into perspective the next time you get embarrassed?
8 – Try Again
You didn’t learn to walk by staying on the floor after falling. Neither will you learn quality lessons if you let embarrassment stop you from moving forward. Even if something goes wrong, learn from it, and keep your head up as you continue to give it your all.
9 – Seek Therapy
Some people struggle to get past embarrassing moments. If you fall into this category, look for help from a professional. They can aid you in getting past these emotions and help you process your feelings in healthier ways.
FAST-ACTION STEPS
- Take a moment to think about your most embarrassing moment. What happened? Let yourself feel the feelings again for a moment, and then see the funny parts and laugh about it.
- Look at the expectations you put upon yourself. Now answer this question, are you a perfectionist? It may be time to learn how to let go of that. Nothing is embarrassing about imperfection.
- Spend some time with a close friend and laugh about your embarrassments together.
- About the Author
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James Donaldson
Former Owner and Director of The Donaldson Clinic (an outpatient physical therapy clinic)
James completed a 20 year professional basketball career in the spring of 2000. James established The Donaldson Clinic in (January 1990 – 2018) (shortly after a career threatening knee injury) with an idea that he would eventually become a physical therapist. He is a strong advocate for Women & Minority owned businesses and is very involved with various Chambers of Commerce. He understands what it takes to sustain a strong business environment that is conducive to the success of businesses overall.
James is a Washington State University graduate (’79). After an outstanding basketball career with WSU, he went on to play professional basketball in the N.B.A. with the Seattle Supersonics, San Diego/L.A. Clippers, Dallas Mavericks, New York Knicks and Utah Jazz. He also played for several in Spain, Italy and Greece of the European Leagues plus toured with The Harlem Globetrotters to wrap up his career. James was an N.B.A. All-Star in 1988 while playing center for the Dallas Mavericks. In 2006, James was inducted into the Pac – 10 Sports Hall of Fame and also the Washington State University Athletic Hall of Fame.
He now devotes the majority of his time to various community activities, and toward the Gift of Life Foundation, speaking on mental health awareness and suicide prevention. James frequently conducts speaking engagements (motivational, inspirational, educational) for organizations, schools, youth groups and is the author of the published “Standing Above the Crowd” of which you can learn more about at www.standingabovethecrowd.com and is available for sale now.
In 2021, James published Celebrating Your Gift of Life: From the Verge of Suicide to a Life of Purpose and Joy. www.celebratingyourgiftoflife.com
James is a 40+ year resident of Seattle. He believes in being a role model of success and professionalism for the scores of young people that he devotes so much of his time to. He currently serves on several Boards and/or committees and is a member of many organizations. (Please see complete listing on back)
James believes in developing relationships that create a “Win – Win” environment for everyone involved, and being the best he can be!
