Why ‘Complimenting’ is necessary?
Appreciation comes in many ways. It’s important to keep doing it.
Feeling valued and appreciated is a basic human need) In the book, “Marriage Meetings for Lasting Love:30 minutes a week to the relationship you have always wanted”, written by Marcia Naomi Berger, she explains why being complimented & complimenting is vital.
Highlighting the fact, “Appreciation is a key part of every relationship”, Berger emphasizes that a relationship doesn’t just involve a romantic one. It could be amongst the partners, family, friends and even with a pet.
Complimenting is appreciation communicated to another. Berger states that a compliment is any sort of sincere appreciation of a trait in someone or a behaviour or an appearance.
And the best part about complimenting? Feeling good. Be it the giver or the receiver. Scientists have proven that getting complimented actually lights up some part of the brain that is equal to receiving a monetary award. Some studies have also proven that getting complimented also helps better in motor skills & behaviour.
Another advantage of giving compliments is the fact ‘you noticed’. Appreciating a co-worker’s smile on a Monday morning might cheer her/him up for the whole day. And Monday being a Monday, she/he will take all tasks/meetings/workload with optimism. Keeping up the smile on her/his face.
How to compliment?
- Make it sincere
If the compliment isn’t from the heart and you don’t mean it, better not compliment. The idea is to appreciate genuinely, regardless of how trivial the matter is. To make the compliment sound sincere, focus on providing open body language & a happy tone. Pay attention to the words you use and how your facial cues are.
- Be specific
Make compliments to the point. So instead of saying, “Wow. I love your top”, change it to “Wow. Red really is your shade. You are glowing.” With this, the compliment receiver realizes that the giver has noticed and feels internally positive.
- Don’t make the other person doubtful
Some individuals are sensitive about their complexion & weight. Don’t compliment them on such topics if you aren’t sure of how they would take it. Instead, choose neutral topics. People who are low on self-esteem don’t take compliments comfortably. They often confuse it with sarcasm & subtle mockery. So while complimenting, keep it simple.
Why compliment?
- Compliments spark creativity
- It enhances kindness and that’s neat
- Engages in trust-building & transparency
- Is free and doesn’t cut you off in any way
- Appreciation is like a frisbee. What goes comes around.
How to take a compliment?
The simplest way is to say “Thank you.” Be it about the smile, hard work put in during office hours, great dressing style or the cuff links on your shirt. Just have a happy smile and appreciate the compliment. Don’t self-question or add unnecessary comments to make things awkward.
