How to Accept Compliments Gracefully

Question: "I'm uncomfortable accepting compliments. How can I handle praise more gracefully?"

Answer: Realize that your achievements may serve as a source of inspiration to others, says clinical psychologist Bonnie Jacobson, Ph.D. "When people say something nice, it means they see you as a success and may want to learn from you," she says. Dismissing your efforts- "Oh, it was nothing"- invalidates your feat. A simple "thank you" or an acknowledgement such as “Yes, I really did put a lot of effort into it" shows that you've got self-confidence and are proud of your hard work.

Originally published in Fitness magazine.