Why are we terrible at taking compliments? Quick to dismiss the good we do? Feel like we can’t show pride? Downplay praise? And why, dear ones, do we think we need to be modest, humble and quiet achievers, all in the name of not being ‘up ourselves’?

What’s that now? Perhaps you feel perfectly justified in openly welcoming positive feedback. If that’s you, I have two questions. What’s your secret  and would you like to be my therapist?

There’s a fine line between being up yourself and standing proud in what you’ve achieved and liking who you are.

I’m going to be transparent; I like attention. And Positive feedback. And Acknowledgement. And Praise. All the praise. If ever I say “Oh stop” what I really mean is, “say it again, louder. In fact, here’s a megaphone, would you mind speaking into it and reiterating the gist of why you love me?”.

I’m a peacock. I adore people laughing at my jokes. Am lit up when I coax a smile out of a grim face. I love people and am energized by them. I want to be noticed and heard. I want to educate others and use humour to champion the glory of physical and emotional health. Here’s the catch. I want all of these things in the most modest way possible.

If I get the privilege of another person (or animal’s) undivided attention, then I am going to appreciate it and do my best to make them laugh, smile and feel happy in my presence. I’m going to be my best, work my hardest and chase my dreams. If others feel like acknowledging me for this, I’ll accept their feedback with a big, goofy, gracious grin. If I get to stand in a spotlight and do something I love; sing, act, speak, then I’m going to give my audience my best. I only expect others to laugh at my jokes if they are actually funny. I have cracked many a floppy, awkward, un-appreciated joke. I do recognise the difference.

It’s okay to be proud of the qualities and actions that others love about you. If you’re smart – own it. If you’re flipping hilarious – roll with it when others say so (you know you want to). If you’re kind, adventurous, loving, hard-working, eclectic, creative, whatever, and someone praises you for it – LET THEM! A simple thank you, or a playful “stawp it” accompanied a hand swish (when you really mean – keep talking), will do.

Let’s be real. It never feels good to have our own praise for someone else backhanded. For goodness sake, give others the pleasure of loving you.