Compliments can motivate or destabilize. For some, recognition reinforces effort; for others, it triggers self-sabotage — anxiety about expectations, discomfort with attention, or permission to relax effort. Research by Baumeister shows “choking under pressure” after recognition. Know which you are.
If compliments destabilize, develop responses that acknowledge without derailing: “Thanks, I’m feeling good.” This companion covers positive and destabilizing responses, understanding sabotage, and strategies for each. (3 min read)