EP 30: Why Is It So Hard to Accept a Compliment?
Sarah McVanel, MSc, CSP, PCC, CHRL, CSODP
Chief Recognition Officer | Canada's Recognition Expert | Professional Speaker | Coach | Author | 'FROG Lady'
In this episode of The Greatness Together podcast, we dive into why so many of us struggle to accept compliments. Have you ever brushed off a kind word, feeling like you didn’t really deserve it? You’re not alone. But what if accepting recognition wasn’t about ego—but about reinforcing what makes you great?
Quote of the Week:
“Acknowledging your abilities isn’t arrogance—it’s accepting the truth.” Sarah McVanel
Greatness Together Podcast Highlights:?
The Psychology of Impostor Syndrome
Many people struggle with impostor syndrome, which is the belief that they don’t deserve success or recognition. Studies by Dr. Pauline Clance and Dr. Suzanne Imes show that high achievers often feel like frauds, attributing their success to luck rather than skill. When we reject compliments, we might actually be reinforcing these self-doubts.
The Science Behind Giving and Receiving Recognition
Accepting a compliment isn’t just polite—it’s psychologically powerful. Research in positive psychology suggests that recognition strengthens neural pathways related to confidence and self-esteem. When someone acknowledges something great about you, it’s not just words—it’s a reflection of how your actions positively impact others.?
When was the last time you fully accepted a compliment? Listen in and learn why doing so can be a game-changer for your personal and professional life.
Did you like this episode? Then you’ll probably also like: “Is Your People-Pleasing a Problem?“?
Greatness Together Podcast Links:
Embracing Your Greatness: Strategies for Recognizing Our Unique Abilities Greatness Magnified Subscribe to The Greatness Together Podcast
Co-Founder of Nvolvus AI & Caring Support - Passionate Networker / Connector - LOOKING TO HELP BUSINESSES / ORGANIZATIONS EMBRACE AI
2 小时前This is really awesome!! As a huge fan of championing and inspiring people, I constantly advocate we compliment people in the most authentic way. Great job Sarah McVanel, MSc, CSP, PCC, CHRL, CSODP, and your daughter is a Rockstar like you! Shawn Barklow, you should chat with Sarah, she is truly special.
Chief Recognition Officer | Canada's Recognition Expert | Professional Speaker | Coach | Author | 'FROG Lady'
3 小时前Tami Adams Founder, Speaker Manager your peeps may like this too...it goes with the article you shared that they loved. Maybe we all embrace the beauty of compliments!