Have you ever brushed off a compliment, changed the subject, or laughed it away because it felt… uncomfortable? You’re not alone. In this episode, host Ari Bryant explores the surprising psychology behind why accepting praise can feel so hard, especially for women.

From self-esteem and vulnerability to social conditioning and self-criticism, Ari unpacks what’s really happening beneath the surface when someone says something kind to you. Backed by research and real reflections, this episode invites you to stop deflecting kindness and start learning how to let it in, one “thank you” at a time. Because it’s not about ego, it’s about healing your relationship with yourself.

Key References for the Episode:

• • “Who can’t take a compliment? The role of construal level and self-esteem” — shows how low self-esteem makes accepting compliments hard. (ScienceDirect)
• • “An fMRI study into self-esteem and self-knowledge in processing feedback” — shows how people with lower self-esteem have different neural responses to positive feedback. (PMC)
• • “Science Shows Accepting a Compliment Takes a Little Courage” (Inc article citing research) — discusses how those with low self-esteem struggle with sincerity and internalizing compliments. (Inc.com)
• • “How to Give and Receive Compliments Assertively” (CCI) — includes common ways we deflect and techniques to accept compliments more healthily. (CCI Health)
• • “Learning to Accept Compliments Can Boost Self-Esteem” (HealthyPlace) — speaks to how practicing receiving praise helps strengthen how we see ourselves. (HealthyPlace)
• • “Taking Compliments to Heart Strengthens Love” (Stanford SPARQ) — shows how reframing compliments’ significance helps people with low self-esteem feel more secure. (SPARQ)

• 
  Press play & let’s talk about it! 💕
  Join our Facebook Private group:
  ⁠www.facebook.com/groups/femaleszn⁠
  Like our Facebook Page: ⁠www.facebook.com/FemaleSzn⁠

  Follow our Instagram: ⁠www.instagram.com/femalesznpodcast ⁠and ⁠www.instagram.com/femaleszn⁠
  

  Visit our website: ⁠www.femaleszn.com/⁠
  

  💌 Got a question, dilemma, or topic you want to hear on the podcast? Email us at ⁠podcast@femaleszn.com⁠