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ENTITY teaches you the how-tos of accepting compliments.

“Psh, ooookay.”

That used to be my go-to phrase when someone compliments me, especially on my looks.

It’s not that I have dangerously low self-esteem or anything. I just don’t want to seem like a prick that thinks too highly of themselves. Many women feel uncomfortable accepting compliments because they don’t want to come off as high and mighty or overbearing.

However, there’s a middle ground between saying “I know” when someone calls you smart and saying “No, I’m not.” That sweet spot? That’s where you want to be. Of course, the way you go about accepting compliments is also contingent on your relationship with the person complimenting you. If the general rapport between you and your BFF is to pretend y’all are the shit, then by all means, be the shit.

What Not to Say

“I know.”

ENTITY tells you how to go about accepting compliments.

I mean, do I even have to say this one? Oh, I’ve said it twice now? Don’t be pompous, just acknowledge their acknowledgment and move forward. Although, if you think someone is undermining your abilities with a backhanded compliment then just go for it, because you are great.

“You think so?”

Even if the compliment did catch you by surprise, it might look to someone that doesn’t know you well as compliment fishing.

“No, I’m not.”

This one’s not good for either party. If someone recognizes the good in you, take it as a sign that there is good in you. Then, your confidence is boosted, and they aren’t placed in an awkward situation.

“Oh, shut up.”

ENTITY tells you how to go about accepting compliments - and how to not.

Again, this is more on a case-by-case basis. This might be fine with your friends, but your boss might not find it as funny.

“No, you know who is? XYZ!”

We weren’t trying to compliment Karen; we wanted to compliment you! It’s good to acknowledge other people’s values, but always deflecting the attention from yourself isn’t always the best move. Even if you have to accept it first before you move onto how Beyoncé is a way better dancer than you, do that.

What You Could Say

“Thank you!” or “I really appreciate that!”

ENTITY tells you the do's and don't's of accepting compliments.

This is the basic grin and bear it model. All of these possible phrases revolve around gratitude. Basically, if someone compliments you, you want to make sure they know it means something to you.

 “Thanks, and you [insert thing they’re great at too].”

Also called Basic 2.0, this model of accepting compliments lets them know that they aren’t the only one who’s paying attention. People love to make others feel good, but they might want to feel good, too.

“Aw, sweetie!?!?!” *hug*

ENTITY tells yo the do's and don't's of accepting compliments.

I’ve used this on countless occasions when I’ve been left speechless and just forgot how to use words out of shock. Non-verbal communicators are always important and sometimes actions speak louder than words.

“I appreciate that because I’ve really been working on blah blah blah.”

Let’s say after working someplace for a year, your boss finally tells you they think you’re doing a good job. This might actually be a good time for a formal, humble brag. It shows you’re putting thought and time into their suggestions and working hard. Then the next time they compliment you add, “And that’s why I think I deserve a raise.”

“I’d like to thank the Academy.”

ENTITY tells you the do's and don't's of accepting compliments.

If your compliment comes in the form of a tiny golden statue after years of working the Hollywood acting scene, this might be the perfect thing to say for you … and really, only you.

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