For years, I wore a mask—a facade of strength and invulnerability. In a world that often equates toughness with success, I thought I had to shield my vulnerabilities from the prying eyes of judgment. Little did I know, the armor I wore was not a shield but a barrier, separating me from genuine connection and stifling my own growth.

We've all been there—the awkward silence after someone praises us, not knowing whether to smile, shrug it off, or just say a simple "thanks." It's like standing at a crossroads with no signposts. I want to take you on a journey into the often underestimated world of compliments.

As a parent, I've often found myself navigating the delicate balance between cheering on my child's accomplishments and fostering a resilient spirit. It was during a seemingly ordinary homework session that I stumbled upon a revelation that changed my approach to parenting—the profound difference between praise and encouragement.