Having a peaceful life is something we all strive for. One way to do that is to live by the “Golden Rule.” Treat people the way you would like to be treated. What does that have to do with complimenting others? I’m so glad you asked.
Don’t you love to receive compliments? It’s so validating – great for your self-esteem and it just plain feels good to hear and feel someone else’s respect or admiration. The person giving the compliment doesn’t have to say much for those uplifting words to lighten your mood and give you the strength to push forward with you head held high.
Compliments reinforce that you’re doing something right and your efforts are being appreciated. It only takes a moment to notice something small about someone and say something nice, but those few words can certainly make a major difference in the receiver’s day.
Compliment Your Family and Friends
Showing your appreciation to those you love has a dual purpose: it shows how grateful you are to have them in your life while at the same time acknowledging the special work they’ve done.
Here are a few examples of ways to express your gratitude:
* “Thanks for clearing the dishes. You did a great job!”
* “I really appreciate your help with dinner tonight! It was a wonderful meal.”
* “I am so thankful for your love and support. You’ve really helped me get through a tough day.”
Children and adults alike are encouraged to help more if they are complimented and receive positive acknowledgment. Hearing compliments on a regular basis sets the example, and teaches children how to appreciate the people in their lives.
Compliment Your Coworkers
There are two types of managers in business: one who appreciates their workers for a job well done and another who just expects the job to get done without any acknowledgment. Obviously we all need to treat each other with the respect and dignity we deserve!
Here are some examples of how to express gratitude at work:
* “Thanks for staying late today. I’ll be sure to tell the boss how hard you’ve been working lately.”
* “The client really loved the report you wrote.”
* “I really appreciate you taking the time out to help me with this. It means a lot to me!”
Adding a personal touch to the office by giving compliments can be a huge motivator. Your colleagues will trust and respect you far more than anyone else in the office.
Compliment Strangers
In today’s society very few people take the time to strike up a conversation with a total stranger. We have to remember that people are brought into our lives every day for a variety of reasons, and you can deeply affect someone’s mood just by being nice to them.
Of course, you probably shouldn’t divulge your entire life’s story the first time you meet someone, but what you can do is notice something good about a person and tell them. Show your gratitude for meeting this person because this experience just might teach you something new about yourself.
Here are a few examples of things you can look for to give an honest compliment about:
* Is the person a sharp dresser?
* Is he a genuinely nice person to others?
* Are the person’s children very well-behaved?
* Did you see the person do a kind act for someone else?
It may seem awkward at first to give compliments with no expectations in return, but the more you do it, the easier and more natural it gets.
The key to expressing your gratitude is opening your eyes to seeing the simple gifts in your day. By paying attention to the actions of those around you, you’ll not only help others gain confidence, but you’ll feel more peaceful from the kindness you’ve added to those around you.
Make a goal to compliment at least one individual in person each and every day. You can also compliment people via phone, email, or text. Start small, and make a goal to reach out to at least five people each day to show your gratitude with a compliment.
The more you are able to compliment others, the more benefits you will see. You’ll start appreciating the small things in life and you’ll brighten someone’s day at the same time.
Find your purpose – find your joy!