Often times I feel I am almost humble to a fault about my work. Sure, no one likes a bragger (oof, especially me), but I have a feeling that my go to response of “Oh it’s nothing,” or “It’s no big deal, really!” when someone is complimenting me about my work is not the best response. I’m horrible at accepting compliments, can you tell? I have a feeling many of you fall into this category, too. It’s hard, no? It is, but I know it’s important for me (and all of us ladies) to take more pride in our work. Yes, sorry for calling out the ladies. I really do appreciate the men who read this blog (!), but let’s face it- it’s mostly females around these parts 
In any event, how do we do this? How do we take more pride in our work without leaving a bad taste in someone’s mouth? I’m calling out to you guys today! It probably starts off with a simple thank you when receiving a compliment, but I think it goes beyond that. I’d like to reach that sweet spot where I can confidently discuss my strengths and skills (and really own it), while still maintaining a humble sensibility.
So, let’s dish. Have you guys figured out how to strike that balance? Do you struggle with this, too? Have any tips on how we can find that confident sweet spot? I’d love to hear your thoughts!
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NO! I need tips!! I am CONSTANTLY undermining myself and very rarely even TELL people what I do for fear that they will think I’m bragging. I’m excited to see if anyone has any really great tips here! I need em’
I totally understand where you’re coming from, Jacquelyn! That’s (selfishly) why I wrote this post
My food blog is currently just my passion project–a place where I can have a creative outlet to write, post photographs and recipes. I still have a *long* way to go to improve my writing and photography skills, but over the four years that I have been blogging, I receive compliments, which still kind of surprise me. I am always tempted to say “oh, it’s really nothing, there are so many other bloggers out there more talented than me.”, but instead, I am training myself to accept the compliments with a simple (and very sincere) “thank you”. From there–depending on how the conversation is unfolding–I may open up more about my blog, writing, photography and the food I like to cook. I will also ask questions about the other person and their blog, craft, passion, art, etc. I think it is important to find a balance between talking about yourself while also showing genuine interest in the other person who has complimented you. I make sure to listen carefully to what they are saying and answer their questions. Entering into a dialogue about a mutual love (writing, cooking, blogging, photography, etc.) becomes something organic and natural so that you don’t feel like you are bragging–you are just talking about your passion, your work, your art, etc. but you still end up telling someone else about yourself and your work. Works for me every time!
Flavia- I am so touched by this comment, such wise words! I loved your point about really listening to the other person- these days I think we’re so easily distracted amidst everyday conversation. I’m definitely going to try out your technique- thanks so much!
I love this topic. It’s easy to blur the lines between bragging and accepting compliments. I really try to focus on how much it means to me what a person says and that it’s about my work, not about me personally. On eof my standard phrases is, “I’m so excited you feel that way! My work means the world to me, so it always so nice to hear when people enjoy it”.
Love that phrase, Erin, and goodness- completely in love with your work! You have so much to be proud of. xx
I constantly catch myself being shy about my blog and brushing off compliments saying “oh, my blog is really small” or “oh, it’s just a fun little hobby.” Hobby/creative outlet it may be, but I spend A LOT of time on it. Even though compliments can make my day, I think I have a hard time accepting them because I’m always pushing myself to do better instead of taking pride in what I’m doing now. Can’t wait to check back for more good advice from others!
Lauren,
Your comment is precisely how I feel. I could have written the same thing, verbatim!
I think before we can accept compliments gracefully we have to actually believe in ourselves! I find it good practice to reflect each day and recognize what I did well or worked hard on- there will always be at least ONE thing I can be proud of, even if its small. (I also reflect on what I probably could have done better.)
But this way, when someone compliments something you did well the natural response will be “thank you, I worked really hard on that!” or “yes! I liked the way it came out too because of __________” The conversation will flow naturally if you truly agree with them. I don’t think ANYONE would find that obnoxious.
Erika, I love your fill-in-the-blank suggestions!
Erika- such wise words! Thank you so much. I’m definitely going to adopt that practice of recognizing one thing- each day- that I can be proud of.
Practice with friends first. At my knitting circle last month, our hostess, a Mama Gena’s School graduate, had us do an exercise of “bragging” we took turns going around the circle and braggiing about something great that was happening, a goal we accomplished, something we were excited about! Men brag all of the time right? It was tricky at first, people felt a little awkward, but we went around the circle 4 times since it had been 4 weeks since we saw each other but by round 4 it was really flowing and you could see how excited people were to share what’s awesome in their lives and when we all showered them with compliments, and praise, it became easier to +smile and say thank you”
Love that, Judy! I just started a new monthly meet up and I think we’re going to have to institute some forced bragging
At a women’s luncheon during a conference, the keynote speaker recommended a book titled something like, “How to toot your own horn without blowing it.” I haven’t read it, but probably will at some point. There could be some good advice in it.
I’m definitely not adept at accepting praise…but I finally was able to “own” and take pride in my achievments in my former TV executive life. Now that I’ve become a new blogger, I am back to ground zero! I need to absorb the compliments and use them to build my confidence. I think the comments everyone has made before me are great pieces of advice.
Great topic! I just wanted to add a thought — Your good example of accepting a compliment graciously can help someone else accept a compliment graciously and so it goes . . . I am raising two daughters, and I try to teach them the delicate balance between bragging and sharing good news.
Lori- that’s so true, it’s very much a cycle. Thank you!
Thanks for finally talking about >Biz Notes: Are you
taking pride in your work? | Channeling Contessa