Because you get self-esteem from SELF not anyone else. ☺
I used to be that way. I would always contradict them, and put myself down. Then the aunt of this guy I was dating went off on me. She started screaming at me. She told me I should be ashamed of myself for doing that. If some took them time to compliment me, I should say thank you and take it to heart. People do not compliment others just to hear themselves speak. They say those things because they believe what they are saying. And you should listen to them. Since then I do listen. I do say thank you. And I also compliment people more.
It's not a problem I have ever faced.
Either "feeling low on myself" or getting "nice compliments".
I cannot help. (But I suspect you do not really need help. :) )
It might be a trust issue. I shy away from unnecessary compliments. They often feel insincere.
Maybe self esteem issues? I have low self esteem but I only get a compliment once in a blue moon.
The odd Compliment here and there may boost self esteem but it doesn't have along term affect. It takes more than a few kind words to make someone change their entire outlook.