A friend and I were talking the other day about how bad we are about taking compliments. We discussed how we never seem to give ourselves enough credit and then when someone does pay us a compliment, we either downplay it or tell them why they’re wrong. What’s up with that? Why can’t I muster up a simple ‘thank you’ and let that be it?
So after doing a little research, I’ve figured out a few ways to help us all accept the compliments that people give us and really take it in, instead of just shrugging it off.
Say Thank You
It really is as simple as that, folks. You don’t have to debate them about it. They like or appreciate something about you – just thank them for it.
Don’t Be the One-Upper
Just because someone says they like something about you doesn’t mean that you have to compliment them back. It’s really not necessary. Just accept the compliment and move on.
Watch Your Body Language
If you mouth says thank you and body language is closed off or cold, they’re going to think you don’t mean it. Uncross those arms and lean in slightly. It will show them you care and appreciate what they’re saying without you even having to say a word.
Acknowledge the Team
If you’re being congratulated or praised for a team effort, make sure to let others know it was a team effort! You don’t want to take all the credit if you had help along the way.
So that’s it. If you still feel like accepting compliments or praise is hard for you, you may want to chat with a counselor that can help you work through those thoughts of not feeling “worthy”. And they;re no shame in therapy at all. When we’re physically sick, we go to the doctor, and when we need a mental health tune up, we go to the therapist. Take care of you.
