Cringeworthy

304 pages, 2018

Melissa Dahl

psychology

705 books

self-improvement

909 books

Takeaways

Description

Melissa Dahl, the editor of New York magazine's Science of Us website, has spent her life being slightly awkward. As a result, she's become fascinated by the universal emotion. In this witty and compassionate book, Dahl explores the oddest, cringiest corners of our world.

She chats with strangers on the busy New York City subway, goes on awkward friend dates using a Tinder-for-friendship app, takes improv comedy lessons, and even reads aloud from a middle school diary to a crowd of strangers. In every chapter, Dahl looks for ways that we can overcome our awkwardness to better connect with others and ultimately become more confident in our own skin.

Embrace the Awkwardness

Melissa Dahl encourages us to embrace our awkward moments rather than run from them. She believes that these cringeworthy moments can be a source of personal growth and self-discovery. So next time you find yourself in an awkward situation, don't shy away. Instead, see it as an opportunity to learn and grow.

The Spotlight Effect

Dahl explores the concept of the 'spotlight effect' in her book. This is the idea that we often believe we are the center of attention, even when we're not. It's a common cause of social anxiety. Understanding this concept can help us realize that people don't notice our every move, which can be a relief.

The Power of Perspective

In Cringeworthy, Dahl encourages us to take a step back and look at our embarrassing moments from a different perspective. She suggests that by doing this, we can find humor in these situations and reduce the power they hold over us. So next time you're feeling embarrassed, try to see the funny side.

The Importance of Self-Compassion

Melissa Dahl emphasizes the importance of being kind to ourselves, especially during awkward moments. She suggests that self-compassion can help us navigate these situations with more grace and less stress. So next time you're feeling awkward, remember to be gentle with yourself.

The Science of Awkwardness

Dahl digs into the science behind why we feel awkward and how it affects our behavior. She uses research and studies to explain these feelings, making the book not only relatable but also informative. If you're curious about why you feel the way you do in certain situations, you'll definitely want to check out Cringeworthy.

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Quotes 5

Melissa Dahl's 'Cringeworthy' is a brilliant exploration of the awkward moments that define our lives. It's a must-read for anyone who wants to understand the human condition.

Adam Grant - Organizational psychologist

'Cringeworthy' is a fascinating deep dive into the science of awkwardness. It's a book that will resonate with anyone who has ever felt uncomfortable in their own skin.

Susan Cain - Author, speaker

Melissa Dahl's 'Cringeworthy' is a masterful blend of psychology, science, and storytelling. It's a book that will make you think, laugh, and cringe in equal measure.