Why do women shy away from compliments? Why do they change the topic when someone wants to give them praise? Why do they turn the spotlight to someone else and their accomplishments before highlighting their own? Ever tried to balance a compliment by giving one back or playing down the compliment?

I have witnessed women (myself included), time and time again, focus their applause toward any and everything under the sun besides themselves. I do believe that there is a balance of confidence and humility, but to thrive and survive in a world designed to make you think less of yourself, being your number one fan and accepting everyone who wants to cheer you on too is quite necessary and dare I say healthy.

Think about all the times you’ve received a compliment and responded with one (even if you really were'n’t intending to give a compliment until you felt obligated because they complimented you). I promise I’m not trying to step on toes! I just want to know why I have heard from so many of my colleagues, “I never know what to say in response to a compliment” and why sometimes I feel the same way.

Alyson Lanier, a life coach and psychotherapist, acknowledges the facts about our culture and how the standards of modesty have effected the way women handle compliments and how we fear to cross the line and enter into “bragging” territory.

This is can become complicated real quick but let’s simplify. You’re being given a compliment because you deserve it and someone wanted to give you one! Although your worth is not defined by compliments, you are capable of giving and receiving compliments and a compliment never hurt nobody!

Let’s make a deal, I’ll accept more compliments in a more positive manner if you do too! check out the Women’s Health article for more deets.

Empowered Women, Empower Women

xoxo

p.s. you look fabulous today!