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About this quote

What does it mean?
Compliments make the speaker feel embarrassed and insufficient, suggesting a discomfort with praise.
In plain terms
Compliments cause embarrassment and a feeling of not enough.
What can you take from it?
Learn to accept praise without self‑criticism.

Where it applies

  • social gatherings
  • performance reviews

Putting it to work

  • practicing gratitude for compliments
  • reflecting on personal achievements

Questions to consider

  • How do you usually respond to compliments?
  • What makes you feel adequate?

Another view

Some may genuinely feel unworthy; the reaction varies.

More from Samuel Langhorne Clemens

  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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