Its 'World Compliment Day 2022' – Would You Mind giving one?

“Yeah, he is terrific. His batting numbers just speak for themselves. I think he’s an incredible player in all three formats”–When Steve Smith, Australia’s best fielder in 43 years complimented the talented Indian Captain Virat Kohli despite an unparalleled rivalry, cricket fans all over the world went berserk!?

Getting a compliment gives a good feeling. However, research says that even giving a compliment is good! It amplifies our self-confidence and nourishes the self-esteem! Interesting... No wonder Mark Twain said, "I can live for two months on a good compliment"

Do you also know that compliment is a form of leadership? So says Sir?Richard?Branson?the British billionaire entrepreneur and business magnate. "Giving compliments is a form of leadership and influence, because people love to be around positive people, and love to listen to their ideas."

And he quotes a lesson from his dad - Look for the best in people. “He always looked for the best in everybody and would never, ever criticise anybody". "I think praise, not criticism is the most important thing for a good leader and it works well in personal life as well."

When Michelle Obama complimented her husband on their 28th wedding anniversary, "I love @BarackObama for his smile, his character, and his compassion. So grateful to have him as a partner through everything life throws at us.", Obama wrote back, "Every day with Michelle Obama makes me a better husband, a better father, and a better human."?So heart-warming to read, isn’t it?

That’s exactly what a compliment does! It activates the reward circuit in the receiver's brain, heightening their focus and motivation. Research says that receiving compliments releases dopamine, the same chemical that is released when we fall in love, eat a cupcake, or meditate!?

So how about celebrating the World Compliment Day today?

March 1 being the World Compliment Day, let us try to give a sincere compliment to atleast three people in our environment / network today. Together we will definitely create the most positive day in the world. For the uninitiated, the Harvard Business Review gives two interesting tips on how to give a powerful compliment.

1. Be Authentic: The most important part of any compliment is that your intention is authentic.?Don’t compliment the person to butter them up before making a request, soften the blow before?giving difficult feedback, or to try and cheer them up after a mistake. If your intention is not genuine, neither is your compliment.
2. Be Specific. As with?giving feedback?or instructions, when you compliment someone, share it in a way that does not leave the person with any question.?For example: “That was amazing!” (What was amazing?)- “I am proud of you.” (For what?)- “Thank you for?taking notes in the meeting.” (It’s my job, why are you recognizing me?)

No hard rules. Just some suggestions from researchers. All that matters is the intention to find the best in people. And give a compliment. Happy 'World Compliment Day'!