How to compliment friends and family and why is it important to give compliments:
My Dad gave meaningful compliments that made us feel seen, like our efforts mattered, and who we are was noticed. These compliments lasted a lifetime. You never know what a boost your compliment will bring and how it can help someone in their life. He was the only person who told me I looked pretty and senior prom and he said my violin playing sounded professional at my university junior solo recital. These compliments remain long after he gave them and after his life.
How do we give a meaningful compliment?
Try to see the whole person in front of you. Notice what you love about your loved ones and put it to words.
Compliment their efforts and actions.
It does not have to be a long compliment.
Be authentic.
The smallest compliments also matter. Just telling them their “sweater and style is nice” also matters and makes their efforts feel noticed.
Be specific. Say what you liked about their presentation or article, etc.
Notice their character traits and compliment those. You could notice they are always a hard worker and pay attention to detail. Maybe they are always on time or very organized or have unique ideas and even say what idea you like that they have. Let them know.
Notice what they pour their heart into and find something nice to say about their work and passions.
These compliments may be the only nice and positive thing the person heard in weeks. The meaningful compliment can give them the boost they need to keep going in a hard project, feel loved, and thrive. It makes you valuable to your friends and families when you are giving them meaningful words.
Some examples of shallow compliments are “I liked your presentation” or “Nice shirt.” We can elaborate on the compliment to make it more effective. Say one thing you liked that was brought up on the presentation. Say why you like the shirt and maybe it is a good color on the person or flatters their frame or personal style.
Relationships in life help us live longer and strong connections support us.
Giving compliments will help build connections and making lasting impressions in someone’s life.
You do not realize the impact your words may have on someone whether they be negative or positive. Positive and meaningful compliments can truly fuel someone’s life and build self-belief.
In conclusion, meaningful compliments can boost self esteem, connection, and the resilience of the receiver.
People may think back on your compliment that gives them what they need to believe in themselves and keep going on a tough project or goal.
I dedicate this article to my Dad who would have been 64 years old today. I miss him and his compliments and he was one of the only people that made me feel truly seen and appreciated for who I am. His meaningful compliments and attention to detail made him irreplaceable to me.
Your meaningful compliments and noticing your friends and families are a deeper level will make you memorable and irreplaceable to them too.
Give it a go and practice giving meaningful compliments and giving compliments will eventually come naturally to you.
That was an excellent article. It was well written and allowed for self reflection. Thanks for sharing this.