"When someone, especially a stranger, notices and appreciates your qualities, you must play closer attention to it." I wrote in my journal a few months back.
Reflecting on your qualities from others' perspective acts as a great compass to navigate your professional journey; especially when you're uncertain or lost.
My usual response to praise has been an awkward thank you, or self-doubt, or letting it go, or worst — all of it! The self-tip and new perspective changed my mind.
Derek Sivers wrote a chapter ‘Obvious to you. Amazing to others.’ in his book. He writes, "Everybody’s ideas are obvious to themselves. We’re bad judges of our own creations. We should just put them out there and let the world decide."
So, next time someone appreciates you, take their word for it; take it seriously.