Well, a compliment comes from a friend
And we feel good inside
They like our work; they say hooray
And we fill up with pride
We all want to take our bows
We treasure everyone
But is it right to take a bow
For what we haven't done

Take the bows, take the bows
Take the bows for only what you've done
Take the bows, take the bows
But never take a bow for a job someone else has done

You'll never feel just right
If a bow you take is a fake
When you pretend the praise is yours
Now that's a bad mistake
It's all right to take applause
For things that come from you
But guilt will come if you bow
For what you didn't do

So, take the bows (When the crowd is cheering)
Take the bows (When the crowd is cheering)
'Cause you deserve the prize you've always won
Take the bows (When the song is over)
Take the bows( When the show is over)
'Cause God gives you talent and the praise for what you've done

You're gonna feel just right
With every move you make
'Cause you deserve a standing ovation
With every step you take
It's all right to take applause
For things that come from you
So step on stage and take a bow
For all the things you do

Take the bows, take the bows
Take the bows for only what you've done
Take the bows, take the bows
But never take a bow for a job someone else has done

Take the bows (When the crowd is cheering)
Take the bows (When the crowd is cheering)
Take the bows for only what you've done
Take the bows (When the song is over)
Take the bows (When the show is over)
Never take a bow for a job someone else has done