Say Thanks
When you get a compliment, just say thanks.
Someone takes a bite of a cake you made and says it’s good.
But you point to the crooked edge.
“The middle sank. The icing is uneven. I left it in the oven too long!”
The compliment gets buried underneath a list of reasons why it shouldn’t count.
You saw the batter, the pan that went in late, and the swipe of icing that just wouldn’t behave.
Your friend didn’t care about any of that. She said she liked it!
You can keep your notes. Lower the heat next time. Give the middle another minute. Smooth the icing if you want.
But shut the hell up and accept the compliment!
This is how you take a compliment:
“Thank you. I’m glad you liked it.”
Learn to stop putting yourself down. The way you speak to yourself is everything.
Don’t Argue With It
Someone says something nice. Let them.
If a compliment comes with a favor, a demand, or a push past your limit, pay attention.
You can say no.
A compliment isn’t a contract.
But your friend liked the cake.
That’s it!
The cake can be crooked and good.
You know every flaw.
She liked it anyway.
Don’t put yourself down. Don’t make them defend their compliment.
Don’t tell her she’s wrong for enjoying something you made.
Say thanks.
Then eat the cake.
Tomorrow, make an even better cake.
Tonight, leave yourself alone.
She liked the cake.
Say thanks.