Take Compliments More Graciously

By Hal Neff

Kind comments are a simple approach to help each other feel better by recognizing our achievements and positive traits. If getting praise sometimes make you uneasy, consider the benefits of being appreciated and learn to respond graciously.

The advantages of Exchanging Compliments

1. Give validation. In the crush of daily challenges, it is typical for people to feel unseen. A word of commendation signifies that we matter and that our efforts make a difference. Be a little more observant and practice with letting others understand what you like about them. You will instantly feel more comfortable and most likely get more kudos yourself soon.

2. Get feedback. Input from others provides important data for letting us know if we are going the right way. If your boss liked your last status report, you can decide what to do with your next one. If your church newsletter features you as volunteer of the month, you know you are investing your time in ways that matter to them.

3. Enrich each other's lives. Kind words and respect help make us mindful of how much we need one another. Take some time to share a little applause.

General Ideas for Receiving Compliments

1. Show gratitude. Whatever the wording, you need to say thank you when someone pays you a compliment. You may make it as simple as that or refer to your own gratification in making a contribution.

2. Fight the urge to downplay. Just ignore minimizing your abilities. It can make you feel less confident and it might make the other person feel like you fail to value their opinion.

3. Keep it brief. If you are already in the habit of deflecting compliments, the best alternative is to keep your answers brief. Just say thank you and leave it at that. Lengthy speeches could get you off track.

4. Pay it forward. If a compliment leaves you glowing, reach out to other people to pass it along. Tell your kids they did a good job cleaning their room or tell a local shop you enjoy their new store window.

5. Monitor your body language. Ensure your face matches your words. Smile and maintain eye contact when receiving praise. Keep your body language open and inviting. Lower your down shoulders and uncross your arms.

Suggestions for Receiving Compliments in Particular Situations

1. Understand gender differences. Everybody can experience awkwardness with words of flattery, but it's commonly more pervasive with females. Learn to identify between healthy humility and putting yourself down.

2. Concentrate on inside beauty. Even when you have good intentions, some individuals may be very sensitive about their physical look or other issues. In some places like the workplace, it is usually better to address how they perform instead of how they appear.

3. Share the credit. When teamwork is concerned, include your colleagues in the tribute. Point out the specific contributions that others made to delivering about any success.

4. Know the process for toasts. If someone raises a glass to, it is right to stay mindful and smile while the rest of the group drinks. You get to drink when you follow up by offering a return toast.

5. Stay updated with social media. Nowadays, people may be saying good stuff regarding you in the electronic world too. Keep up to date with Facebook or Myspace, Twitter and different programs. Give immediate and heartfelt thanks just like you would at home or in the office.

Let compliments lift your spirits and brighten your day. Giving and receiving praise aids to direct us towards our desired goals and fortifies our interactions on the way. When someone says something nice, thank them sincerely and remember you are worthy of it.

About the Author:

LEARN HOW TO BE GRACIOUS IN RECEIVING COMPLIMENTS WHILE LEARNING TO BE MORE COMFORTABLE IN YOUR OWN SKIN. BEGIN TO APPRECIATE YOURSELF AND STRENGTHEN ALL YOUR RELATIONSHIPS.