If you follow me on social media, you know that I was recently promoted to manager. It’s a career milestone as spots don’t come around that often and I actioned specific feedback to get here. It brought many emotions: I’m so very proud of myself and have endless gratitude for all those who invested in my development. And yet, after the initial shock and awe worn off, it felt weird, almost awkward to share my news. But why?!
I’m not a fan of talking about myself or being the center of attention. So all this attention has been hard for me. Every time someone congratulated me, my instinct was to deflect and find a way to make it about them. I was aware of what I was doing and after a friend called me out, I started to just say thank you.
I’m a big believer in humility, yet it turns people off when you start explaining why someone shouldn’t be giving you a compliment. Here are a few of my observations on why you should just say thank you:
- You should acknowledge the other person’s opinion, regardless of your reaction to it. Clearly, the person has thoughts that should be validated.
- Don’t turn a positive thing into a negative one. By saying thank you, you’re continuing to keep the good vibes flowing versus deflecting, which deflates the conversation.
- Gratitude is good for your mental and emotional wellbeing. So by saying thank you to said compliment, you’re increasing your positive emotions as well as the other person’s. You can also use the thank you as a segway to how the person may have helped you achieve the goal they’re referring to. Win-win for both parties!
- Um, hello, did you ever think you deserve said compliment?! You’re not cocky or gloating if someone is recognizing you! Perhaps that dress does look fabulous or someone witnessed the hard work you put in to get your promotion. You’re allowed to stand in your sun as long as you wear sunglasses.
Tagged: Center of Attention, Compliments, Gratitude, Overwhelmed, Positive Emotions, Promotion, Recognition
The Rockstar Diaries 
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