How to Graciously Accept a Compliment

I recently witnessed an attractive man give an equally attractive young woman a compliment in the elevator. Then we all stood in the quiet confines of the elevator as the once confident woman fiddled, looked at her shoes and stumbled over a self depreciating, "...uh, oh, thank you." It was painful to watch her awkwardly accept the sincere compliment as the gentleman looked dazed as though he had somehow said something inappropriate.

That seemed odd considering we have become a nation of looky-louies; feasting on celebrity gossip, reality TV and non-stop YouTube footage. The entire planet appears to be clamoring for the spotlight yet when tossed into the limelight the crickets start chirping.

While they are an instant confidence booster; compliments can be tricky. Because you can recieve them in your personal, academic and business life, the manner in which you accept a compliment says a lot about you. For instance, if you scoff or refuse a compliment from a superior this can be taken as an indication of insecurity or low self esteem which can sideline your career. There is an art to graciously accepting a compliment. While it feels good to be recognized for your accomplishments be sure that you don't appear to be cocky when you say thank you. Listed below are four simple steps to help you confidently accept the next time you receive a compliment:

Sit or stand up straight. Do not shrink back and act timid. This makes you seem like you either don't like them, or you aren't confident, or even that you don't believe them.

Smile widely when taking a compliment. A compliment is intended to make you feel good. If you frown, look at the ground, or look away, the other person will be confused or uncomfortable. Smiling will make both of you feel good.

Thank them. This is one of the best ways to reply in return to a compliment. That is simple enough and more importantly painless.

Remember to accept the compliment without trying to take the subject off yourself or feeling like you have to pay them back. This will make you feel more confident and let you grow to like yourself better.

There is no shame in practicing if you are not certain that you can pull this off. Remember confidence, humility and sincerity are key. Give yourself a variety of scenarios to help prepare you for any situation. As women, we are often taught to be humble and not to grab the spotlight but there is a difference in arrogance and being a glory hound. It is important that we accept credit for our hard work and be confident enough to know how to say thank you when others take notice.