Just some advice, since you said you're 16. When you get a compliment, I know it's tempting to downplay yourself and seem humble, but a "thank you" is almost more appropriate. Stand by yourself :)
I read it as somewhat insulting to the complimenter. "You think this is good? My own standards are much higher."
Maybe that's unfair, but in the context of the author's prior description of being involved in trying to achieve, or join, or do things to stand out, the interpretation I gave feels more plausible.
It seems much more polite and appropriate to me to not react that way.
