Why do people describe themselves as being 'humbled' when they win an award or are otherwise honored?

I often wonder why people jump to the conclusion that “it’s an empty platitude”. Even eminently successful people struggle with self-image, and that’s likely compounded when they’re publicly placed in a category with people they hugely admire. I tend to give them the benefit of the doubt most of the time.

I think HeyHomie got it better. It would be more like winning a contest, and then realizing that Eric Clapton won the same contest and who are you to have the same award as Eric Clapton?

~Max

In our lifetimes there has come a trend towards “keeping it real” and rejecting false modesties, and also of affirmation of self-regard. Which is fine and good, but, yeah, that does not mean either that social formalities that make for a kinder, gentler interaction must be dismissed as “empty platitudes”.

Besides “damn right, it was time you all recognized how awesome I am!” Unless given with a knowing wink, makes one sound like an asshat. Or Kanye.

I am sure it must be very humbling to follow in the footsteps of such noteworthies as Christopher Cross and Milli Vanilli.