Most of us have heard the saying, "It is better to give than to receive," which is a great principle to live by on a regular basis. But what about the gift of receiving? Perhaps that is not as common. I invite you to come along with me on a quick reframe journey to learn more.
In my recent Internet travels, I watched a short video of a person asking why we don't seem to know how to receive a compliment anymore. Often, when someone gives us a compliment we may embarrassingly shrug off or deflect the compliment in some way as though we are unworthy or undeserving. Has this happened to you? Are you guilty of this? I know I am.
As I reflected on the video's message, it occurred to me that in our increasingly automated, virtual, digitally-connected-yet-personally-disconnected world, we may have fallen out of practice with how to graciously receive. I like to think of compliments as gifts and my reflection led me to the concept that graciously and gratefully receiving a "compliment gift" (or any other gift) is also a gift back to the giver! And, that when we minimize a compliment or gift that someone has given us, we minimize ourselves and may also be diminishing the giver in some way. Yikes! I needed to let that sink in for a few minutes.
Here's the good news and a reframe: Like many practices in life, the "gift of receiving" is a skill that we can improve...with practice. In doing so, we can acknowledge our worthiness and goodness and also honor others. In the words of Martha Stewart, "That's a good thing!"
This week's suggested reflection and practice is giving and receiving "compliment gifts." Notice how it makes you and those around you feel. You might just find some gold nuggets along the way.
Have a great week!
guilty of this .. a good reminder