The Power and Impact of Giving Compliments

We’ve all been on the receiving end of a compliment at some point in our lives, whether it’s centered around our physical appearance, clothing or style. While these physical compliments can momentarily boost our ego, the most impactful and heartfelt ones tend to focus on our character or inner qualities that make us unique.

Receiving a sincere compliment can ramp up our “feel good” meter and show us that others value our qualities and ideas. But did you know that giving a compliment can be just as powerful, if not more so? The simple act of giving a genuine compliment can boost your own positivity, because you’ll make someone else feel good. That positive energy you just created will most likely be met with a smile or a “thank you,” and that reciprocal exchange of positive energy is a wonderful way to uplift someone’s day.

Here are fifteen wonderful compliments that you can give or receive, each with the power to make a positive impact on someone’s day.

1. You are nothing less than special.

This compliment is one of the most beautiful and powerful ones that you can receive. It implies that you are adored, loved, and admired, and that you have qualities that set you apart from others.

2. You are one of a kind.

When someone tells you that you’re one of a kind, it means that you’re unique and special in a way that no one else is. You possess noticeable good qualities that distinguish you from others and make you stand out.

3. You always make people smile.

A smile can help in even the most challenging situations, and when someone says this to you, it means that you have a happy-go-lucky attitude and a genuine desire to make others feel good. Smiles are contagious, so practice them often.

4. You are always there for me.

If you want to express your trust in someone and let them know they can count on you, then this compliment is perfect. It shows that you’re dependable, accountable, and always available to lend a listening ear or a shoulder to lean on.

5. You always see the bright side.

Someone who always sees the glass as “half full” exhibits a positive spirit and can always see the benefits of any situational circumstance. If someone gives you this compliment, it’s a telltale sign about your perspective and how you view and respond to things that may not always be under your control.

6. You would make/you are a beautiful mother/father.

This compliment is often given by partners who are contemplating having a family or who already have children. It expresses the acknowledgment that they see kind, caring, and loving “parenting” qualities in the other person and honors the giving spirit of a parent.

7. You always throw a great party.

If your friend consistently throws wonderful gatherings, it’s important to acknowledge them for it. Hosting a party takes a great deal of time, energy, and work, and by offering this compliment, you’re acknowledging their social skills and their uncanny ability to make their guests feel comfortable and at ease.

8. You are the best friend/mother/father/wife/husband/partner anyone could ask for.

This compliment can be said to almost anyone as long as it’s spoken with sincerity. It embodies friendship, care, trust, and closeness, and being the “best” in anything means you rank #1!

9. You never cease to amaze me (spoken in a positive light).

When someone gives you this compliment, they’re sharing their thoughts about your ability to persevere, be adventurous, or be unique and consistent in your actions. You keep finding ways to impress or astonish them with your kindness, and it’s something that they deeply admire.

10. You set such a great example for others.

If someone tells you this, be proud! You’re exhibiting leadership qualities that others notice and commend. Not all people are great leaders, so revel in someone taking notice of your values and your ability to motivate, inspire, and guide others.

11. You raise the bar.

By raising the bar, you are setting new (and higher) standards for yourself and others. If someone pays you this compliment, they are implying that you’re a high achiever, not only able to do your best but also to set new levels of achievement for others to follow.

12. You always go the extra mile.

This compliment acknowledges that you exceed the standards and won’t accept doing the bare minimum. You’ll go above and beyond what is required of you, and it’s something that others deeply admire.

13. You are always willing to lend a hand.

If someone embraces this philanthropic nature, they will go out of their way and perhaps accept personal sacrifices just to help someone in need. With their genuine desire to be accommodating and supportive, they often do so unconditionally.

14. You walk the talk.

This compliment signifies your down-to-earth attitude regarding your words and intentions and your actions. You say what you do, and you do what you say, and you’re not one to pay lip service. Those who pay you this compliment believe that you’re very dependable and have the ability to create much success in your life because you stand behind your words.

15. You have a heart of gold.

Having a heart of gold implies that you are kind, understanding, supportive, and giving. These words imply that the kindness you possess is rare and valued like gold.

In conclusion, the power of the compliments that we give and receive is strong. By highlighting others’ strengths and forgiving their weaknesses, we create a positive and uplifting cycle that benefits everyone involved. So, adopt the words of Dr. Steve Maraboli and “sprinkle compliments and uplifting words wherever [you] go.” You never know whose day you might uplift or whose life you might change with just a few kind and powerful words.