When someone compliments you, say thank you and describe how it makes you feel instead of downplaying it or making self-critical remarks. Three practical steps with everyday examples like praise for a shirt, your work, or a meal you cooked.
The right way to accept a compliment. Number 1, instead of downplaying the compliment, say thank you and tell them how it made you feel. For example, let's say somebody's complimenting your shirt. Instead of saying, "Oh, this old thing? I got it from J.Crew on the sales rack," say, "Thank you, that makes me feel good." Number 2, instead of dismissing or deflecting the compliment, say thank you and tell them what it means to you. For example, say somebody's complimenting what you did at work. Instead of saying, "Ah, it was nothing. I mean, anybody could have done it. Just doing my job," say, "Thank you, that means a lot to me." And number 3, instead of being overly self-critical, say thank you and acknowledge the value of the compliment. For example, let's say somebody is complimenting a meal that you made, or really anything. Instead of saying, ah, you don't mean that, or you should have seen how many times I got it wrong, say thank you, I appreciate you saying that, or I appreciate you noticing. And you can really never go wrong with just a simple thank you, period. And that's the right way to accept a compliment. So try that and follow me.
