Emotional CompassMy diary

← All states

Embarrassment

Family: Threat and vulnerability

How it differs from similar states

Public awkwardness—I realise I've broken a social norm.

How this can feel in the body

Your face turns red, your eyes drop or look away—your body wants to make itself smaller.

It usually comes up when

A public social mishap; an awkward situation in front of others.

What this might be pointing to

Demonstrates awareness of social norms; exists only in social settings.

What you can do with this

Embarrassment is a sign that you're aware of social norms. That's not a bad thing. Usually, the situation matters far more to you than it does to everyone else.

Where the name comes from

Embarrassment is a social emotion—it only arises around other people, when you're aware of being seen.

Not quite it?

Closest by feel — the same ones the compass would show.

Check yourself with the compass

Two minutes, and you will see whether this is really it