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Self-Esteem
Difficulty Accepting Compliments
Someone compliments you and an instant awkwardness kicks in: you correct them, or rush to mention a flaw to balance it out — as if accepting a compliment exactly as given is something you specifically aren’t allowed.
You might notice
- You reflexively answer any compliment with "it was nothing" or by naming a flaw to balance it.
- You change the subject quickly after being praised.
What generally helps
- Apply a "thank you only" rule for one full week: whenever a compliment lands, answer with just "thank you" and stop there.
- When the urge to correct rises, ask yourself: what do I think will happen if I accept these words exactly as said?
Source: Self-Verification Theory (William Swann) · Self-Compassion (Kristin Neff) · General developmental guidance, not a diagnosis or a substitute for a professional.
When to seek professional support
If refusing compliments is part of a wider sense that you don’t deserve good things generally, that’s worth a conversation with a mental health professional.