I noticed a few years ago that I always play down compliments given to me. So at the time I developed an exercise for myself where I had to accept ALL compliments for two weeks.
There are probably many reasons why people do this, but for me I hate the thought of being thought of as egotistical. I also don't like the thought of being 'above' others. However I think my behaviour regarding this concern over compensates and is therefore unbalanced.
I am not aware whether it is a British character trait or whether it only relates to certain people. I have a friend who is really good at accepting compliments, I once said to him "So how good an architect are you?" and he replied "Actually, I'm very good". It didn't come across as egotistical, but more self-confident and level headed. I can certainly learn from this person.
In those two weeks it was very hard to accept compliments, but I did it anyway as I realised the benefits would outweight the short-term awkwardness experienced. With practise it did get easier, so it's something that I still try and practise now.
It seems like a good idea to learn this behaviour of accepting compliments, and being more forthcoming with our own skills and talents if someone asks about them. It will hopefully help others in a similar situation.
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