Hey, when was the last time a compliment really made your day? Perhaps it was something small, but maybe it stuck with you and you thought about it long after. And the best part? The right words can leave a lasting impact, shaping self-confidence and self-worth.
Compliments can really shape how we see ourselves, even if we don’t even realize it. While telling someone they look great can be nice, the most powerful compliments are the ones that recognize who they are beyond their appearance— what they bring to the table, how they make others feel, and the strengths they may not even notice in themselves.
Impacts of Meaningful Compliments
They Validate Strength
Telling someone, “I admire your strength” reminds them that they are resilient, even if they don’t always feel that way.
Recognising someone’s inner qualities can help boost their self-confidence!
They Encourage Positive Self-Perception
When someone says, “You’re a good friend,” it’s like a little pat on the back, showing that you’re appreciated for who you are, not just how you look.
It reinforces a sense of belonging and self-worth.
They Build Emotional Security
Telling someone “I feel safe around you” shows that you trust the person to make you feel secure and supported.
Compliments like these can really strengthen your relationships.
They Highlight Unique Strengths
When you tell someone, “You’re so resourceful,” it helps them recognize their problem-solving skills.
This can strengthen their confidence in problem-solving and decision-making.
They Reinforce a Growth Mindset
Acknowledging qualities like kindness, perseverance, and insight fosters a mindset that values effort and growth over fixed traits.
Compliments like “I love how you see the good in everyone” can help people think more positively.
Shifting the Way We Compliment Others
It’s easy to default to appearance-based compliments, but making a conscious effort to recognize deeper qualities can be more impactful.
Next time, try acknowledging someone’s kindness, intelligence, or resilience. Not only will this make them feel valued, but it will also contribute to their long-term confidence and self-worth. A simple, thoughtful compliment might just be the thing that helps someone see themselves in a new and empowering light.
Key Takeaways
Compliments focused on character, values, and effort have a lasting impact on confidence and self-worth.
Meaningful compliments validate strengths, build emotional security, and encourage a positive self-perception.
Shifting from appearance-based to character-based compliments can strengthen relationships and boost personal growth.
A simple, thoughtful compliment can change someone’s perspective and help them see their worth more clearly.
Being intentional with our words can create ripple effects of confidence and positivity.
What’s a meaningful compliment you’ve received that made a difference in your life?
A compliment is a verbal sunshine.
Robert Orben
Corlissa Seah, Counsellor & Founder of Vibe Check Practice Providing online therapy to support mental health and well-being
Vibe Check Practice 
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