March 1 marks World Compliment Day—a day dedicated to the simple, yet powerful act of offering genuine compliments. This observance encourages us to take a moment to recognize something positive in those around us, whether at home, at work, or in our communities. Compliments can help build stronger relationships and create a positive atmosphere. Let’s not just focus on giving compliments today but make it regular practice to lift others up with kind words.
Compliments show people you truly see them
I will never forget the impact a former coworker had on me and our team on her last day at the company. Instead of sending a typical, generic farewell email saying, "It’s been great working with you all, stay in touch," she did something much more personal. She sent a thoughtful email to a select group of colleagues with whom she worked closely. In it, she listed each person’s name and shared a specific compliment, pointing out what made each one special. While she may have also sent a broader message to the rest of the company, her focused email felt more meaningful and personal.
Here’s why each of her compliments worked so well:
- It was specific: Instead of a generic "you’re a great person to work with," she highlighted the qualities that made the person stand out. For example, she praised one colleague for their collaboration skills and their ability to uplift the team. Specific compliments show that you’re truly paying attention and make the compliment feel personal.
- It focused on character and effort: Compliments about someone's character or effort can often be more meaningful than those about appearance. Compliments like, “I really admire your patience and kindness” or “The dedication you showed on this project was impressive” show that you appreciate the person for who they are and what they contribute.
- It was genuine: Compliments that are vague or empty can feel insincere. To make your compliments impactful, ensure that they come from a genuine place. People can tell when you’re being authentic, and that makes your kind words even more powerful.
- It was public: Complimenting someone in front of others can have an even greater effect. In a world where negative news often dominates, it’s refreshing to hear about the positive contributions people make. Compliments in a public setting help create a ripple effect of positivity.
Why compliments matter
With our busy, fast-paced lives, it’s easy to overlook opportunities to give compliments. But the truth is, compliments are more than just nice gestures—they are essential in nurturing human connection. Here’s why compliments matter:
- Boost confidence: A thoughtful compliment can uplift someone’s spirits and reinforce their sense of self-worth.
- Foster positivity: Compliments help create a positive atmosphere, making interactions more enjoyable and meaningful.
- Strengthen bonds: Genuine compliments build trust and foster deeper connections, whether in casual friendships, romantic relationships, or professional settings.
How to make your compliments count
Here are some tips to ensure your compliments leave a lasting impact:
- At work: In a professional setting, compliments are foundational for teamwork and collaboration. Acknowledging a colleague’s expertise or effort can foster a culture of appreciation, boost morale, and enhance productivity.
- In friendships: Compliment your friends on the qualities that matter—like their creativity, loyalty, or sense of humor. Celebrating what makes them unique reinforces your bond and helps nurture deeper connections.
- In romantic relationships: Compliments are key to maintaining a loving relationship. Whether it’s appreciating your partner’s personality, appreciating how they treat you or valuing the small things they do, genuine compliments help keep emotional connections strong.
- In everyday interactions: Even in casual encounters—whether with a barista, neighbor, or stranger—compliments can spark moments of connection. A simple “Your smile just brightened my day!” can make someone feel seen and appreciated.
On World Compliment Day, let’s remember the power of kind words. Whether you’re complimenting a colleague’s hard work, a friend’s kindness, or a family member’s talent, the positive ripple effect can be profound. Compliments are social glue that help us feel seen, heard, and appreciated. Best of all, they’re free, easy to give, and incredibly impactful.
For more inspiration on topics like empathy, friendship, and kindness to help build stronger relationships, follow us on Instagram at living_happily_connected or on Substack at @cherknebel. Also, check out our latest release, Your Social Connection Guidebook, available on Amazon here or on our website here. The guidebook is full of inspiration to make social connection a priority and includes pages for creating your own social health plan.
