Hey, you! Yeah, you. That was a great idea you had in the meeting this morning. No, don’t give me any of that negativity. I won’t hear it. It was a great idea and that’s that … and (get this) you are one smart cookie. I mean, you really know your stuff and I am glad to know you.
National Compliment Day is January 24 and I hope you are ready to give as well as receive. Compliments are so easy to provide, yet we often seem so reluctant to do so. When was the last time you paid someone a sincere compliment? When was the last time you received one? Has it been too long?
Compliments are powerful things and when offered with honesty, are empowering for those on the receiving end. They build confidence and provide positive validation of thoughts and actions. Often, a single compliment can change a person’s day from dark to light, a mood from troubled to relieved, and give someone much needed hope that they are moving in the right direction at the beginning of the New Year.
Impactful compliments are much more than quick and positive superficialities – they go a step beyond. They are an acknowledgement of hard work, respect and attention. Impactful compliments touch who a person is and how they define themselves, and are meant to enhance their feeling of self-worth. For example, if the person is an engineer and really knows what they are doing, tell them so and be specific as to why you think so. Maybe they thought of a clever fix for a vexing electrical problem? Being specific in your compliment proves sincerity; those receiving it understand that you have truly taken notice. Every day, someone provides more than their share of reasons for a compliment. It’s up to you to go that extra step and call it out.
If it’s been a long time since you’ve paid someone a compliment, then National Compliment Day is your time to get the New Year rolling. How many can you give in a day? A week? A month? Why not go for a new personal best? I have faith that you’ll do it because I’ve noticed that, when it’s about making the world a better place, you always come through.
Help someone start the New Year in a positive direction by paying them a sincere compliment today!
