How to make embarrassment a good thing
June 1, 2017
By Brian Maynor
Embarrassment is a normal, healthy and natural emotion, especially when we make a mistake or misstep. Some of us tend to feel it more frequently, and to a higher degree than others, but that doesn’t have to be a bad thing.
Expressing embarrassment is the best non-verbal way of saying ‘I’m sorry,’ and an indication that the behavior is uncharacteristic and uncomfortable for you. It may also be surprising to learn that others perceive embarrassment as a sign of trustworthiness, according to research.
On that note, here are a few other ways we can turn awkward moments into powerful ones:
1. Keeping our cool in awkward situations impresses others. When we retain our composure in the heat of the moment instead of caving to retaliatory behavior, others admire our ability to react quickly to difficult situations in a calm and measured manner.
2. Laughing at ourselves is a sign of confidence. While we may feel like crawling under the table, if we give a slight chuckle, own it and keep moving others will more quickly move on as well. Plus laughing after an embarrassing gaffe is considered an attractive quality.
3. Blushing builds social bonds. Thank goodness there is a bright side to turning red, other than our faces. If you’re like me and blush easily at seemingly innocuous things, including being introduced to new people, you’ll be glad to know that blushing is a sign of a sensitive, caring and sympathetic person.
4. Accepting and enjoying the inevitable allows us to have a better time. Some embarrassing situations we can see coming from a mile away, which can make them worse because we focus on dreading the inevitable. The trick to getting a handle on the impending fear is to simply accept it. At that point, we regain control over the situation and it doesn’t seem so bad.
No one likes being embarrassed, but at least it doesn’t have to be solely a negative experience. Whether it’s chuckling after we trip on the sidewalk, blushing when we call someone the wrong name, or keeping our cool when we’re being publicly critiqued, it’s in our best interest to embrace embarrassment instead of trying to run from it.
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I am always curious to hear from you and what you see in the workplace. Send your questions, comments and pet peeves to [email protected]. Also find each of these storyboards at http://brianmaynor.polyvore.com with links to purchase each item.
About Brian Maynor
Brian Maynor has built a reputation as one of the leading style coaches in the Southeast and is quickly expanding his eponymous company, BRIAN MAYNOR and his FIND, FLATTER & FLAUNT line of image consulting services. A professional with a fresh, upbeat and down-to-earth personality and boundless creative energy, he works frequently with with local celebrities; Fortune 500 companies and nonprofit organizations; modeling agencies; fashion designers; production companies; record labels; media and individuals. A regular contributor to various fashion blogs and online communities, Brian Maynor is one of the most trusted and recognized style experts in the region, utilizing his education and training as a broadcast journalist to serve as a style lecturer, emcee, and commentator for over a decade. He has appeared at fashion shows, expos, and charity fundraisers, as well as events with big brands like Banana Republic, Ann Taylor, Chico’s and Macy’s. His approach is innovative, creative and fashion-forward, balancing fresh, modern styles with classic pieces to keep one’s look grounded. To learn more, visit http://www.brianmaynor.com.
