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About this quote

What does it mean?
Praise makes the speaker uncomfortable because it feels insufficient or insincere.
In plain terms
Compliments feel inadequate or awkward to the recipient.
What can you take from it?
Recognition can feel strange if it does not match self-perception.

Where it applies

  • receiving awards
  • workplace feedback
  • public speaking

Putting it to work

  • accept praise gracefully
  • seek specific feedback

Questions to consider

  • Why does praise sometimes feel unwelcome?
  • How do you handle recognition?

Another view

Not everyone feels embarrassed by compliments.

More from Mark Twain

  1. The rule is perfect: in all matters of opinion our adversaries are insane.

    Permalink to quote #49
  2. Thunder is good, thunder is impressive; but it is lightning that does the work.

    Permalink to quote #51
  3. It is curious that physical courage should be so common in the world, and moral courage so rare.

    Permalink to quote #48

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  3. Hollywood dishes out too much praise for small things I won't let it get me, but too much praise can turn a fellow's head if he doesn't watch his step.

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