Cut the cream cheese into small cubes
Leave it at room temperature for 15 to 30 minutes
Microwave it in 5-second bursts on low power
Place the sealed package in a bowl of warm water for 5 to 10 minutes
Beat it with a spoon or hand mixer to speed softening
Grate it if it is very cold and firm
Spread it thinly on a plate to warm faster
Mix it with a small amount of another soft ingredient if the recipe allows