I also hate this. When someone tells me they really like how I did something, when they clearly don't and only say so to package their criticism, I find it hard

I also hate this. When someone tells me they really like how I did something, when they clearly don't and only say so to package their criticism, I find it hard to take their criticism seriously because at that point I no longer know which parts are honest anymore. But it seems to be a cultural thing. I've noticed when I moved from The Netherlands to North America, that people here are often less direct, and actually appreciate the packaging. People seem to be more easily shocked when things are said in a more direct way. It's not necessarily a bad thing, but going from one culture to another it can cause unpleasant situations, on both sides.