Everyone has talents. That’s right, Matt, even you possess skills. Own it.

I’m not adept at accepting admiration. I deflect and minimize.

However, I enjoy giving sincere compliments and push back when the other person tries to parry my praise. I struggle to as I say, not as I do. But I effort to improve this trait.

I chatted on the phone with one of my few remaining direct representation clients the other day. He is incarcerated in a federal facility after a jury convicted him of white-collar crimes. I have written an appellate brief as well as motions and memorandums of law for him. None have earned the relief we sought. Despite the results, he said, “You are an excellent writer, especially compared to the judges’ responses and my previous attorneys’ work.”

A couple of days later, I texted with a colleague and friend. She stated, “You’re a great writer,” and suggested I submit an article to a publication by the Phila. Bar Association.

I’ll not submit to the inclination to ignore the compliments. And I’ll not caveat them by telling myself, “I might be okay, but I’m not Hemingway.” Instead, I will graciously accept the appreciation. FULL STOP.