Giving a compliment well is a skill to be developed. It has the potential to improve people’s days – and even more – their whole lives. Why? Because many people carry hurts and self- doubts covered up. They only appear to “have it all together.”
We can do them a huge favor by observing what they do well and commending them. Here are some helpful hints about this process.
Be quick to pass on a compliment you hear. “Hey Jane, I heard Bill say that you added a lot of creativity to the project last week.”
If you want to have the attention of a child in your life, then talk about their good deeds while they are within earshot. They will seem to be lost in toys or play but they are noting everything you say. “Johnny helps me so much by getting himself ready for school each day and giving me time to feed the baby.”
If possible, avoid superlatives like “You are the most wonderful singer in the world.” Instead, just give a sincere description of how that person’s gift affected you. “Last night, during your concert, I felt joy for the first time this week. Thanks for that!”
Praise effort and contribution. “Your dinner party took a lot of work and planning. This seemed to allow everyone to relax and chat freely with one another.”
Put it in writing. Beyond the ease of an email or text – which are good – an actual card with handwritten words of appreciation is something that the receiver can enjoy often, now and in the days to come.
Bless your world by being an excellent encourager!
