How to give and receive positive vibes
For many people, accepting a compliment can feel challenging. If you’re not accustomed to receiving praise, you may dismiss it or refuse to acknowledge it. However, compliments serve a greater purpose than mere niceties.
Learning how to accept and give compliments can enhance our overall well-being and satisfaction.
Good mental health relies on fulfilling our emotional and psychological needs, which includes giving and receiving attention, according to registered psychotherapist Lee Pycroft. Compliments contribute to our sense of well-being, making us feel acknowledged and valued.
The advantages of compliments extend beyond simple recognition. They can highlight qualities or skills we may overlook, boost our self-esteem, motivate us to persist, and symbolize love and acceptance between individuals.
Empowerment coach Vanya Silverton notes that compliments can foster goodwill and kindness, even diffusing tense situations.
Compliments have a scientific basis in their ability to enhance happiness. Receiving praise for accomplishments can trigger dopamine, a chemical linked to motivation and positivity, prompting us to repeat those behaviors.
Conversely, expressing gratitude can release serotonin, which is associated with happiness. When we perform kind acts, it often inspires others to act kindly, creating a ripple effect of positivity, explains Chris Dreyfus-Gibson, founder of the Holistic Network, Zentrify.
When giving a compliment, specificity is key. This demonstrates sincerity and shows you genuinely appreciate the person. Observe what makes someone unique and acknowledge it in detail. Instead of a vague compliment, say something like, “I love the way your handwriting looks,” or “The color you chose is beautiful.” This approach not only feels more meaningful but is also easier for the recipient to accept.
Timing plays a crucial role as well. If someone excels in their job or bakes a great cake, offer your compliment right away rather than waiting.
While it’s nice to be generous with compliments, moderation is essential. Overloading someone with flattery can seem insincere. Save your compliments for moments when you truly feel them to maintain their significance.