"You're a hero." "Thank you for your service." For many first responders, those words don't land the way civilians think they do. In this episode of the Tactical Living Podcast, Coach Ashlie Walton and Sergeant Clint Walton unpack why praise can feel so uncomfortable (Amazon Affiliate)—and what's really happening under the surface when you find yourself deflecting a compliment. Praise is meant to honor your service—but for some, it brings on guilt, awkwardness, or even resentment. Whether it's because of survivor's guilt, imposter syndrome, or simply being conditioned to stay humble, deflecting compliments becomes a habit… and one that might be robbing you of meaningful connection. In this episode, we explore the psychology behind discomfort with praise, and how to respond in a way that honors both your service and the person expressing gratitude. 🧠 5 Signs You Struggle With Receiving Praise You Downplay Compliments or Change the Subject Example: Someone thanks you, and you say, "I was just doing my job." Impact: Cuts off connection and diminishes your own contribution. You Feel Undeserving of Recognition Example: You survived when others didn't, or you think others have done more. Impact: Creates internal conflict and emotional detachment. You Avoid Public Acknowledgment Example: You dread award ceremonies or being singled out. Impact: Reinforces a belief that being seen is unsafe or uncomfortable. You Distrust People Who Praise You Example: You question their motives or assume it's just flattery. Impact: Prevents genuine relationships from forming. You Feel Emotionally Numb or Triggered by Gratitude Example: A thank-you brings up painful memories instead of pride. Impact: Blocks emotional healing and connection. 🛠️ 5 Ways to Respond to Praise with Grace and Authenticity Practice a Simple "Thank You" Without Explaining It Away Let the compliment land. You don't need to justify or reject it. Recognize That Receiving Is Also a Form of Service When you receive well, you validate someone else's attempt to honor you. Reframe Praise as an Acknowledgment of the Role, Not Just the Person Even if you don't feel heroic, the role you stepped into deserves respect. Use Praise as a Moment to Reflect on Purpose Take a pause to remember why you serve—and let that gratitude nourish you. Talk Through the Discomfort With a Trusted Peer or Mentor Chances are, you're not the only one who feels this way. Processing it helps. 🎯 Why This Episode Matters Deflecting praise might feel humble, but it also pushes people away. Learning to accept appreciation doesn't make you arrogant—it makes you whole. 🎙️ Listen now to understand why compliments feel so uncomfortable for many first responders, and how to shift from deflection to connection.

💥 Gear We Recommend for Our First Responder Community: 🛡️ Tactical storage made easy: STOPBOX – Buy One, Get One Free

🎯 Connect With Us: ✅ Join our Private Facebook Group for First Responders & Families 🎥 Subscribe on YouTube for behind-the-scenes content and live interviews 🌐 Visit LEOWarriors.com for coaching, resources, and more

💬 Listener Question: What's one small act of service you can do today to honor someone who served? Let us know in the Facebook group or DM us on Instagram!

Disclaimer: All viewpoints discussed in this episode are for entertainment purposes only and reflect our personal opinions based on our own experiences, background, and education.

🎙️ Want to be a guest on Tactical Living? Send a message to Ashlie Walton on PodMatch → Click here

(Ad) Some product links in this episode may be affiliate links, which means we may earn a small commission if you make a purchase—at no extra cost to you. We only share products we genuinely believe in and trust.

📣 For PR, Speaking Requests, or Networking Opportunities: 📧 Email: [email protected] 📫 Mailing Address: P.O. Box 400115, Hesperia, CA 92340 🔗 Ashlie's Facebook: facebook.com/police.fire.lawenforcement