I have the worse time with compliments.

When someone tells me I'm cute. I disagree.

When someone tells me I'm good at something. I disagree.

Why can't I take a compliment? And enjoy it. Or say thank you. Why do I have to disagree with it or make up reasons why not?

Am I mad? I feel like they have ulterior motives. Especially when I'm told I'm cute, good looking, etc.

And then I feel bad afterward because I feel they're wasting their time talking to me.

Should I believe the way others see me or the way I see myself?

Sounds like a self-esteem issue maybe. But you should at least say thank you, even if you think they're wrong about you. They're being nice to you, and you want to encourage that behavior, not drive it away.

A simple "Thank you" is the best response. Don't be insecure about yourself! And try to return compliments. Also, make sure you know the difference between the genuine article and the disingenuous one. I forgot where I found this but it's good advice to follow:

Most people are jerks who'll use you in a heartbeat.
Find the ones that aren't and make them your friends for life

I disagree, BigBlue. Most people are NOT jerks. A minority are. Still sage advice. Just smile, say thanks, and move on. If they are uber-hot, f*ck 'em...literally!

Yes, you are right, millerbeach. Most people are decent. You see that every time there is a disaster or crisis in the world. People coming together after 9/11, the outpouring of empathy and charitable giving in the wake of the Tsunami in SE Asia and Katrina in NO, and the stories that have come out about the US Air flight/Hudson River Crash landing, are all example of basic human decency.

I guess I wrote too hastily after thinking about Michael Phelps. I've written elsewhere that Matt Mitcham is a better spokesman for gays and straights than he. However, I can't help but have sympathy for Michael Phelps, who must now be constantly vigilant about who he hangs out with. The guy or gal who sold that photo to the tabloids was a jerk who used him.

Thanks for the opportunity, though, to let me reconsider my original stance!

Anytime, Big Blue! Thanks for the compliment!