A compliment is the closest thing to magic as, well, magic itself! If given properly, compliments create incredible positive energy that they practically make things happen. Research has shown that receiving praise affects dopamine levels in the brain because it is considered a reward, in the same sense as a monetary or material gift. And the magic? Receiving a compliment can lead to increased motivation resulting in higher performance. According to this research, “praise has two essential components of reward, that is, hedonic and motivational. Praise can induce a feeling of happiness (hedonic component), and also promotes motivation (motivational component).”

In 1998 Compliment Day began with Debby Hoffman and Kathy Chamberlin as a way “to tell the people in our lives how much we appreciate them.” Focusing on the good that is all around us not only boosts our own mood, commenting on praiseworthy situations spreads joy to the people we share them with.

Best of all, compliments are free! Go on, compliment the people in your life for their effort, their kindness, their great cooking, their beautiful hair today… whatever it is that you genuinely feel. Your sincere words will surely make their day – and most likely yours, too!

What is the best compliment you’ve received? Comment below!