Ego Week

[batskeets]

I don't know what it is, but everyone is busting out the compliments this past week. Well, most of the actual compliments have been at derby, but I'm getting some awesome inquiries and referrals, too, and getting positive responses from people in general. It's like the universe decided to play the Let's Fluff Your Ego game. Not that I'm complaining, but it's strange to have that happen all of a sudden, when you feel that you haven't changed in any particular way, or are feeling like you haven't been performing at your best.

On a related note, what is with my inability to take compliments? My first instinct is to deflect it in some self-deprecating manner, but that's not the right answer, because I don't want to show a lack of confidence. And, of course I don't want to sound conceited--not only would that be untrue, it'd basically make me hate myself. But, saying Thank You doesn't seem quite right, either, because someone will say a nice thing, and I'll say, "thank you!" and then they'll keep saying nice things, and I don't know how to respond and then I feel awkward and aaaggggh.

Yeah, I'm overanalyzing that entire interaction, because I'm ridiculous. My life is weird.

On a semi-related note, even the skate shop lady said that she's heard the teams talking, and that she thinks I'll get picked up this draft. At this point, I'm not doubting that I will, but I still can't be sure what team I'll end up with. Getting through the next few days between now and Thursday is going to be agony. Gaaahhhh.

P.S. I'm behind on posting photos for Photo-Making Month, but I've been taking them. Soon, my lovelies, very soon.

Comments

[freyis.livejournal.com]

I've been experiencing the same thing re: programming and a project that recently got demoed at a meetup. I have the same problem in that I don't quite know how to handle it beyond the initial "thank you" part. Hooray for both of us!

[lillilah]

My advice on compliments is to say "thank you" and smile. If you have nothing else to say, then just keep smiling. Sometimes, people just want to talk. When they are done, you could say, "I appreciate that." Then, they don't feel stupid. If something really touches you or means a lot, say so. If you have worked hard on something or tried something new or otherwise have background info on the thing being complimented, talk about it. Also, if someone seems super excited about something you have done, then you could treat them as a resource, saying something like, "Can I use you as a reference if someone asks for satisfied customers?", "Could I use a quote from you on my website?", or "Can I show you this thing I've been working on and get your honest feedback?"

You aren't the only one to find compliments difficult.