How to Make Someone’s Day (and Yours Too!)

Yesterday, I was cleaning out my email inbox when I saw my friend Annette’s weekly ezine. She’s the creator of Lighten Up! Weight Loss where she shares her unique perspective on diet-free living.

Anyhoo, I opened her email and was greeted by a photo of her kissing her George Foreman grill! You know, the “Lean, Mean, Fat Grilling Machine.” The picture was hilarious, and it was so fun to see Annette being goofy.

Normally, I would have chuckled to myself and moved on to the next item on my to-do list. But instead, I decided to use that opportunity to do something good for me and Annette.

I gave her a compliment.

I hit Reply and told her how much I enjoy her healthy living tips and that her funny photo made me laugh. It was a simple thing to do, but I’m sure it meant a lot to her to know that her work is appreciated.

You already know how important it is to live a kind life and treat others with respect. And I know you love that warm, fuzzy feeling you get inside when someone tells you that you look beautiful, that you’re an awesome friend, or that you’re doing a good job.

But how often do you take the time to tell someone how much they mean to you?

When did you last give a sincere compliment?

It’s time for all of us to take it to the next level and share even more kindness with the world.

Here’s my challenge for you: give at least 1 compliment every day.

Try to find something special about all the people around you (really look!). Maybe your spouse has a great sense of humor. Your coworker might have on a pretty pair of shoes. Your kids might be behaving extra nice to each other.

And you’re not limited to your family, friends, and coworkers. You can give a compliment to someone on the subway or waiting in line at the post office. Try to compliment a different person every day.

Sharing a compliment has 2 benefits: it will make that person feel good and you’ll get a burst of happiness too.

So, go on! Share your kindness with the world.

I’ll start: You are a powerful, vibrant person, and I am honored to be your coach. You rock!

“The greatest compliment that was ever paid me was when one asked me what I thought, and attended to my answer.” Henry David Thoreau

What’s the best compliment you ever received?