Am I the only one who re-reads old diary entries and cringes?
That feeling of embarrassment when you stumble upon your past thoughts is incredibly common. Many people find their old entries filled with intense emotions, dramatic declarations, or even just awkward observations that no longer align with who they are today. It’s a natural reaction to see your former self through a new lens.
Research into self-perception suggests that over 85% of adults report feeling occasional embarrassment or awkwardness when recalling past actions or beliefs, particularly from their younger years.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why do I feel so embarrassed by my old diary entries?▾
Embarrassment often stems from a disconnect between your past self and your current identity. You've likely matured and gained new perspectives, making your previous thoughts seem naive, overly dramatic, or simply different from how you'd express yourself now. It's a sign of personal evolution.
Is it normal to want to throw away old diaries after reading them?▾
It's a common impulse! The urge to discard old diaries can come from wanting to distance yourself from those uncomfortable past feelings or simply to clear out old clutter. While some find value in keeping them as a record of their history, others prefer to let them go.
What can I do with old diaries I find embarrassing?▾
You have a few options. You could simply put them away and revisit them later, or never. Some people choose to selectively edit or annotate their old entries, adding current thoughts. If the embarrassment is too strong, you might consider disposing of them privately if that feels right for you.
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