Not an art form I know well by any means. Here was me the other day having a pleasant conversation with a nice older lady about the hot Florida weather when she said something that made me smile my big toothy, goofy grin:

Nice lady: “Oh, what beautiful teeth you have!”

Me: “Uh..oh..(hand now covering mouth)..uh..thanks?” Cue me now scurrying away.

I would say that was a rather spastic response to a totally innocuous statement. At least I responded. Usually I just look at the other person wide-eyed and slack-jawed. There is something about receiving compliments that catches me completely off guard and turns me into some sort of shy, self-conscious buffoon. Why couldn’t I just stand up straighter, grant her another smile and say, “Well, thank you! I owe it all to flossing” and then continue on with our conversation? I have given much thought to this lately. One thing I know for certain is that I LOVE receiving compliments. Even though it isn’t obvious at the time of said compliment I do secretly revel in it later. I don’t believe it is a security issue. I have my days but on a whole I am a confident person. I don’t think it is an insincerity issue either. I mean, come on, I do have some pretty fabulous teeth. I think it comes down to the fact I do not like the spot light. At all. Case in point? My wedding. I could not stand the thought of having a bunch of people there all staring at me. So, we went to the courthouse instead. I don’t regret this decision but I am planning a BIG party for our tenth anniversary next July. I am proud of our marriage and our time together and I want to share it with others. I decided to apply this same line of thinking to receiving compliments. Own it and be proud of it. When people compliment you they are usually interested in what they are praising you about. Thank the person and then share with them why it is so. Example:

Nice person: “You are in really good shape!”

Old me: “Whatever. I feel fat” (answered while shifting around awkwardly)

New Me: “Thanks! The 5 days a week I spend at the gym seem to be paying off.” (Then add in an arm flex for good measure. Actually, don’t do that. Seriously, don’t.)

Just do not make light of it because I am sure you are worthy of the compliment. More importantly, remember to give compliments to others. We all know how a few nice, unexpected words from someone can completely change the direction of your day.

*Happy Friday!*

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Written by Lea Barlow • Leave a comment