Why is it that so many of us struggle to accept a compliment? A kind word about how we look or something we’ve achieved, and yet, more often than not, we brush it off, downplay it, or change the subject.

Is it possible we’ve learned to be modest, to stay humble? That’s not always a bad thing. But somewhere along the way, modesty can get in the way of self-worth. We’re quick to celebrate other people’s beauty and achievements, but when it comes to our own, we deflect, focusing on our flaws instead. We zero in on the things we’d rather change, and rarely on what makes us unique, vibrant, beautiful - what makes us US.

And when someone offers a compliment, instead of owning it, we often shift the focus to something we don’t like about ourselves. It’s almost as if accepting praise feels boastful or arrogant. But there’s nothing arrogant about recognising our value. In fact, it should be empowering.

Particularly as women, we’ve been shaped by outdated societal expectations. We’ve grown up in a world that still holds us to impossible standards, where we’re expected to be everything to everyone. So we shrink ourselves, second-guess our worth, and dull down who we are just to fit in.

Of course, it feels great to put on a new outfit, swipe on a bold lipstick, and feel good in our skin. But when it’s on ourterms, confidence runs deeper. It’s not about conforming to someone else’s version of beauty, it’s about embracing our own. Ageing doesn’t diminish us. It empowers us. The lines we wear, the strength and wisdom we’ve gained, the experiences we've lived - that’s our superpower. It’s not something to hide, but something to honour.

What’s key is the connection between mind and body. When we feel comfortable in our skin, we see ourselves more clearly. It’s not just about how we look - it’s about how we feel on the inside. There’s a quote I love: “No one is you, and that is your power.” So true - and yet we often forget it.

The real shift comes when we stop trying to be someone else and start recognising the beauty in who we already are. Our individuality isn’t something to correct. It’s something to celebrate.

When we truly recognise our worth, we begin to see it in others, too. Compliments flow more naturally, both given and received, because we’re no longer chasing validation - we’re simply reflecting the truth we’ve already embraced.

So next time someone says something kind, take it on. Smile. Say thank you. Believe them. Believe in YOU.

Because no one else gets to be you. And that’s exactly what makes you powerful.

I say we own it!