Cut the cream cheese into small cubes
Leave it at room temperature for 15 to 30 minutes
Microwave it in 5-second bursts
Place the sealed package in a bowl of warm water for 5 to 10 minutes
Grate or shred it if it is very cold
Beat it with a spoon, whisk, or mixer after softening slightly
Mix it with a small amount of another warm ingredient if the recipe allows