The Power of Compliments: A Daily Practice of Uplifting Others

As an SEOer at Google, I often think about the impact of daily actions, such as giving compliments, on our personal and professional lives. Today, I reflect on the last compliment I gave and why it matters.

The last compliment I bestowed was at my son's BBQ three days ago. With around 50 guests, many of whom I met for the first time, I found myself in a conversation with two friends of my son. Overhearing their desire to be in the modeling industry, I turned to one of the girls and said, 'You have a perfect nose, so you’ll photograph well.' Her friend agreed, and an hour later, my son introduced her to me, and she asked for reputable agents in New York and Los Angeles. I sincerely hope her dream comes true, and my compliment played a part in inspiring her.

I've noticed that giving compliments doesn’t come naturally for everyone. Some find it easy, while others may struggle. For me, complimenting people on the street or in casual settings is second nature, as it reflects my character. My friends know to expect a compliment anytime they see me, and they aren't necessarily impressed with my ability to uplift others; they simply understand who I am.

Others might be more reserved, yet for them, 'still waters run deep.' The act of giving compliments doesn’t necessarily mean being loud or conspicuous; it’s about sharing positive affirmations that can brighten someone's day. Whether it’s a perfect nose, a gorgeous ring, or beautiful hair, these small gestures of appreciation can have a profound impact.

Compliments often take me moments, such as when I complimented a customer service worker's gorgeous ring, a checkout clerk's outfit, or a hospital intake clerk’s necklace. These compliments aren't just surface-level; they start meaningful conversations and help build positive relationships. A compliment like ‘loving your necklace, each stone representing a family member’ led to a discussion about her family and her upcoming vacation, making my interaction more personal and memorable.

Yet, the benefits of giving compliments extend beyond just the recipient. The act itself is therapeutic. When I speak positively about someone else, it often leads to a genuine conversation, making me feel good about the interaction. It shifts the focus from self to others, which is a powerful and positive shift.

Here are a few strategies for incorporating compliments into your daily life:

Identify areas where compliments can be given, such as in casual encounters or professional settings. Avoid generic compliments and aim for something specific and sincere. Keep a running list of aspects you admire in others, making it easier to recall during interactions.

Remember, compliments cost nothing but can have a great value. They are a simple yet effective way to make the world a brighter place, one positive interaction at a time. So, let's make an effort to give more compliments each day and see how they can uplift others and ourselves.