This week’s F Word is flattery.
Why does praise make so many high performers want to crawl out of their skin?
In this episode, Dr. Daryl Appleton explores the psychology behind compliment deflection and why “being humble” is often something much more complicated. From self-verification theory to imposter syndrome, she breaks down why compliments can feel threatening when they don’t align with the story you tell yourself.
This episode covers:
why praise can trigger discomfort instead of confidence
how high achievers use modesty as self-protection
the hidden cost of deflecting compliments in leadership and work settings
why false modesty creates insecurity
what to say instead when someone gives you praise
If compliments make you panic, minimize, or redirect credit immediately, this one will hit.