The Bottom Line

If someone treated you badly, or if your embarrassment was caused by acting in a way that conflicted with your own values, you might be feeling shame or guilt, not just embarrassment. In that case, this advice might not be applicable.

Otherwise, letting the memory happen, feeling the feelings it brings and asking yourself these three questions can help stop the cringe.

You can even write the questions on an index card and keep it in your wallet or somewhere else you’ll be able to find it easily. Let embarrassment be a reminder to practice self-compassion.