Compliments are sometimes the worst. Don’t get me wrong, I love to be complimented as much as the next person, but the hard part comes in the aftermath. Just take a moment to imagine it. You’re walking down the street and you’re trying out a new haircut when suddenly, out of nowhere, a friend of yours ambushes you. You strike off a pleasant conversation for a few minutes, but you both realize you have places to be, so you agree to end your little meeting. “Alright, see you later!” you say, walking away full of confidence in your superior social skills. As you continue to walk, your friends offers one last comment: “Oh, and I love the new haircut!”

That’s when you say it…

“Thanks, you too!” Suddenly your social skills don’t seem so refined. You feel like an absolute dunce and you look back to see their reaction and see them pause as they walk away, and then they continue on their way. “Do I correct myself?” you think -- but no, that would make you seem dumber. Sheesh, you think to yourself, that’s probably one of the most awkward moments of your life.

But then you remember...

(Two years ago at the movies)

Employee: Here you go! Enjoy your movie!

You: Thanks, you too!

(18 months ago at Wendy’s)

Employee: Thank you for choosing Wendy’s, and enjoy your meal!

You: Thanks, you too!

(Last semester on move-in day)

Mom: Have fun at college!

You: Thanks, you too!

(Last week when you got pulled over)

Officer: Try to watch your speed from now on, OK?

You: Thanks, you too!

(Last night in your dorm)

Roommate: Can you turn that music down? I’m trying to study.

You: Thanks, you too!

(Literally 20 minutes ago at Starbucks)

Employee: Here is your special beverage. Please do enjoy, because we made it just for you, and there is absolutely no one here that could be receiving such a unique treat, least of all myself.

You: Thanks, you too!

Has this ever happened to you? Well, you’re not alone. I do this on practically a daily basis, so don’t beat yourself up. We’re all a little awkward sometimes, and once you realize that, the pain of being about as socially graceful as Michael Cera’s Guinea Pig becomes almost bearable.

Stay strong, and stay awkward!

Thanks for reading!

You: Thanks, you too!