The Power of a Compliment
Recently I was one of two speakers at a luncheon program. Later that afternoon, I received an email from my co-speaker – a professional whom I admire – that started out: “You’re wonderful!” The writer added a couple of lines about the highlights of my presentation contribution. While I don’t consider myself wonderful, I certainly felt wonderful reading that note! The only cost associated with that generosity of words was the couple of minutes expended in sharing them with me.
I recently posted about the power of words and how they can be used to harm or desensitize. So how obvious is it that the opposite is also true? We all have the power to use words in a way that will lift, elevate, support, and make others feel special. And who better to speak our gift-words to than our spouses? With a sentence – even a mere two words – we can compliment their looks, their efforts, their talents, who they are.
Do it often. Do it daily. Do it now. It makes a difference. And they’re worth it!
[…] I retweeted a tweet, I tweeted Shel Harrington’s blog post The Power Of A Compliment and twittered approximately 9 tweets in total. Suddenly I had my first […]
Such a wonderful reminder, Shel. It always gives me a positive charge when I REMEMBER to offer a heartfelt compliment to a deserving someone. (I just need to remember on a regular basis.) Have I ever told you that your blog is so thoughtful and heartening?
Aww, thanks, Sonia – assuming, of course, that you meant it as a compliment and not just a question that could be answered ‘yes’ or ‘no!’
Hi Shel,
Thanks for this important reminder! I often think kindly of others, I’m learning to give voice to those kind thoughts and be an encourager. We can all use some affirmation.
Great post!
Thanks, Peggi. I have read your blog, and you are clearly an encourager! You’re so right about us all being able to use some affirmation – and it’s such and easy – and rewarding – gift to give!
Very good point you make here, Shel.
I passed it on, on Twitter.
It’s all too easy to give people negative comments, but it’s so much more helpful to point out what’s good, likeable or nice about someone.
I already did to my loved ones, but I will do it more often to people I know less well or even at all.
Let’s start with you: I think the purpose of your website blog is remarkable in a highly positive way! And you come across as a very nice person.
Keep up all the positives in your life!
What a nice note to receive, Mirjam – thank you! And thank you so much for sharing on Twitter. From reading one of your recent posts, I know you realize how helpful sharing on social media is for us newer bloggers!
You’re welcome. It’s well deserved in my opinion, to spread this blog post around and my earlier comment about you.
Yes, I very well realize the importance of social network platforms. In the past, it wasn’t an option for me to use it. Long story, but I have certain plans now. Those plans involve the necessity of those same platforms, so I took a calculated risk. And I also realize that I’m not the only one that wants to be recognized or acknowledged.
Therefore, it’s a small token to pass on other people’s blog posts from time to time as well. 🙂
Thanks for stopping by on my blog, taking the time to write a worthy comment and I will respond to your comment there soon.
Sometimes I feel guilty when I give a compliment because not only does it make the recipient feel good, but I feel great as well! The guilt doesn’t stop me. I make a point of giving a couple compliments a day. The ones given to complete strangers are often the best. 🙂
It does feel good, doesn’t it?? Finally – guilt I can live with! I like that you’re intentional about complimenting others, Jill – it’s a wonderful gift you give.
So true!
And so easy!
FABULOUS reminder, Shel. You are the best sister ever. 😉
No, YOU are. And you have pretty eyes.