Receiving Compliments

Have you ever considered that you may only be complimented by someone if (at some level) you share an honest appreciation of your own self?

That’s really all a compliment is. Have you ever complimented someone only to have your compliment tossed right back at you?

Disregarding a compliment can happen in myriad ways. You may tell someone you like their outfit, and they may respond by commenting it’s old or the wrong color. You may compliment a friend’s son’s or daughter’s performance, only to hear the other parent making excuses as to why he or she didn’t do better. How do you feel if someone turns down a compliment from you?

Have you ever turned down someone else’s compliments towards you?

Even if you don’t feel like you agree with someone’s positive assessment of you, simply acknowledging the compliment and saying “thank you” will do two things. First, the person complimenting you will feel good about giving you a compliment (disregarding a compliment can insult the complimenter). Second, you’ll feel that much better about yourself. Third, you’ll likely continue receiving compliments.