When someone gives me a gift, I should accept it. A compliment is a gift. When someone says, “you look nice today,” the correct response is “Thank You.” Not “well I don’t wear this shirt that often, it really needs ironed and my belt doesn’t actually match my shoes.” Self-deprecation is rooted in self, and it is still selfish.

Humility is not thinking less of yourself but thinking of yourself less.
– unknown

I used to think by declining a gift, I was being humble, “oh no, I really can’t accept that.” When I deflect a compliment, or a gift, not only am I being selfish, I’m robbing the person of the gift of giving.

So next time someone offers you a gift or a compliment, a simple “Thank You” is fine.

photo credit: psd