Compliments are Contagious

When did you compliment someone last? Did the person feel good? How did you feel knowing you made someone else feel good? When I receive a compliment, I feel good about myself. It reassures me that my actions are making a positive difference. Each time I give a compliment, I get a sense of pride knowing I made someone else happy.

When I discuss giving compliments, sometimes it can seem too simple. What if someone has an ulterior motive? Is the compliment genuine? How can I tell whether or not the compliment was meant for me or for someone else? These kinds of questions can cause a person to not be receptive towards receiving and giving compliments. There are also people who do not like to express compliments and feelings with words. The person may not be comfortable expressing emotions. The person could've had a bad experience when giving or receiving a compliment in the past.

If you are not comfortable giving or receiving compliments, then there is good news for you. It is not too late to like giving and receiving them. It may not  be easy, but it can become contagious. Here are my suggestions for developing positive feelings about compliments:

1)Tell yourself that you are worthy of receiving compliments. If you don't think you are, then you may be hesitant to give and receive them;
2) After you do this, figure out the easiest way for you to express yourself. If you have a difficult time telling someone "thank you" for holding open a door, smile and nod. If it comes across as creepy or weird, don't worry about it. Someone will appreciate it;
3) Start opening your mouth. A simple "thank you" works wonders;
4) After a while, start adding in more words and make your compliments specific to the person.

Right now, the holiday season is in full effect. There are many people who will be rushed and unappreciative. This is the perfect time to practice complimenting other people. By the time the holiday season is finished, complimenting will become easier and it can become contagious.