In our current world, there is an extreme amount of hatred and jealousy, especially consuming the minds of high school students. To get rid of the negative thoughts in our brains, we need to reteach ourselves to be more observant and positive when speaking to others.

It is very likely that one simple remark you say could impact someone’s entire day, or even their whole life. People’s everyday routine often changes based on how they receive feedback from others. 

Considering this, it is important to make sure we use our words to make people feel seen and accepted.

I often notice that whenever I am having a bad day, receiving compliments switches my mood and adds a positive spark to how I’m feeling.

My own experiences made me realize that one compliment can completely change the course of someone’s day. As I realized this, I was more aware of how I was noticing and appreciating the people around me.

I’m not suggesting that we should shower people with quick, superficial compliments. Instead, we should begin noticing small details that make people who they are. The next step is not just to notice those details but to feel comfortable sharing them.

To upgrade compliments that may seem generic, just focus on adding some extra detail. For example, in place of saying, “I like your shirt,” you could say, “That color looks amazing on you!”

By simply adding specific observations, our compliments will leave a stronger impression on whomever we are speaking to, whether it be a friend or a complete stranger.

Another idea is to look deeper than someone’s physical appearance. Many people often get complimented on their outfit, makeup, or hair, but something that stands out more is when you acknowledge a part of their personality. Simply think about what qualities contribute to their overall individuality, like their humor, honesty, supportiveness, or empathy.

Showing appreciation for someone’s personality doesn’t take place in the same form as other compliments. 

For example, as someone who has a quiet personality, I often get noticed by my close family for being a good listener. When people open up to me, they communicate a compliment by showing they trust I will listen, not by saying it directly to my face. These kinds of compliments don’t require a specific format since they can appear in several different ways.

However, not all compliments need to be complex when they come from someone unexpected. When strangers compliment you, it comes across as more genuine because you know that they are not just being “friendly” or attempting to climb higher in social status, they mean it. 

One memorable experience of mine took place after a volleyball game when the opposing team’s coach complimented my setting while we were high fiving. During the game, I was getting down on myself and feeling negative towards how I played. But when he said that simple compliment, my mood immediately became more positive, and I was ready to face the next competition in the tournament.

What made this compliment so memorable was the fact that it came from someone on the competitor’s side. Even though he was a complete stranger, he managed to improve my day with only a few words.

You never know what effect your words will have on others, which makes giving compliments that are truly meaningful all the more important. 

Unlike other uncontrollable aspects of life, we have complete freedom when it comes to how we speak about others. Knowing this, it’s crucial that we build our compliments carefully in order to show others the appreciation they deserve.