Whether it’s the fear of rejection when giving a compliment or the disbelief of deserving to receive a compliment, praise is often equated with cringe. In a professional setting, it’s sometimes considered inappropriate to comment on the strengths of others, or even a sign of weakness. Being unsure of the current state of mainstream taste creates hesitancy. Personal insecurities can even lead to suspicions of a hidden agenda.
Do you see how there is a lack of love?
To speak to a stranger has become an uncomfortable experience where we fear numerous potential outcomes from the interaction. You can’t blame us though—the world has become a scary place. From recurring crimes and schemes we are bombarded with through social media or the news, there seems to be an increase in hostility. Malice exists, whether in significant acts of hurtfulness or in casual language.
But that doesn’t mean warmth has diminished.
When there is so much space for being overwhelmed and causing overwhelm too, it’s essential to incorporate love into each day. One approach is compliments.
Think about how you feel when you receive a compliment. Think about how you feel when you give one. The joy that comes from spreading love must consciously outdo the doubt and fear of judgement. Loving fearlessly is a choice, after all.
Below is a list of articles that provide research around the power of a compliment. It’s not just a nice action, it’s a human necessity.
A Simple Compliment Can Make a Big Difference
Erica Boothby, Xuan Zhao, and Vanessa Bohns explain the lasting positive impacts of compliments especially as they relate to the common withholding of giving them out. In this article, supportive environments filled with gratitude all start from the simple act of appreciating another.
Study: Receiving a Compliment has Same Positive Effect as Receiving Cash
David DiSalvo breaks down a study which found that the area of the brain lit up with joy when we are rewarded with money is also lit up when receiving a compliment. This physical reality proves the strength of positive acknowledgment.
5 Reasons Why You Should Give Compliments
This listicle shares Dr. Anthony Jack’s top reasons for giving compliments backed by his expertise in Psychology, including the fact that compliments increase happiness and gratitude, strengthen our relationships, and physically contribute to the improvement of our health.
The Power of a Compliment
Scott Wisniewski describes an activity called Third Party Compliments that is incorporated into the culture of Wayne Valley High School in New Jersey. Wisniewski outlines the process which you can implement in your own daily environments, including submitting kind remarks, sorting and preparing them, and finally delivering them on paper.