The power of a compliment is pretty remarkable: Either giving or receiving one can boost your happiness and confidence — making it a win-win. So on January 24, celebrate National Compliment Day by going all out with your complimenting. Created in 1998 by two women from New Hampshire — Kathy Chamberlin and Debby Hoffman — National Compliment Day is a fun day (filled with great vibes) that can include everyone.
National Compliment Day timeline
- 1722
"Compliment" redefined
Another definition of “compliment” is added into the English language: “a present or favor bestowed, a complimentary gift.”
- 1650
"E" vs. "I"
The spelling of the noun “compliment” shifts from “e” to “i” because of the Italian noun “complimento”—it’s defined as: "expression of respect and civility."
- 1610
Compliments to the French
Compliment with an “i,” derived from the French word “complimenter,” is added to the English language as a verb with the definition: "to pay a compliment to, flatter or gratify by expression of admiration, respect."
- 1300s
First. Compliment. Ever.
The first version of the word "compliment" was derived from the Latin word “complementum," which was created during this time.
National Compliment Day Activities
Compliment a stranger
Complimenting friends and co-workers on National Compliment Day is a given, but step out of your comfort zone and compliment people you don’t even know. Gas station attendants, Starbucks baristas, bank tellers, the grumpy worker at the DMV — everyone's worthy of receiving a compliment.
Spread the good vibes on social media
Even though an in-person compliment may seem more genuine, what matters is making people feel good about themselves. Be sure to use the hashtag #NationalComplimentDay to reach more of them.
Challenge friends, family and coworkers
See if you can get friends and family to compliment at least one person. Spreading good cheer is contagious.
5 Of The Best Movie Compliments Ever
"Anchorman"
Ron Burgundy: “You’re like a miniature Buddha, covered in hair.”
“The Help”
Aibileen: “You is kind, you is smart, you is important.”
"Elf"
Buddy: "You have such a pretty face, you should be on a Christmas card!”
“Jerry Maguire”
Jerry: “You complete me.”
“Christmas Vacation”
Clark Griswold: “My cousin in-law, whose heart is bigger than his brain, is innocent.”
Why We Love National Compliment Day
It can build confidence
Receiving a compliment can certainly brighten your day. Having someone notice positive traits can instantly make you stand a littler taller and walk more confidently.
Anyone has the ability to celebrate
Unlike Christmas, where you’re stressing out about spending money on gifts, compliments are free. Plus, anyone can give a compliment — regardless of what's in your bank account.
Compliments work — in the workplace
Here's some helpful advice for bosses and supervisors: Compliments are a powerful way to motivate continued employee efforts. Studies show that rewarding a person with either compliments or money activate the same area of the brain. Thus, compliments can increase on-the-job performance.
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2019 | January 24 | Thursday |
| 2020 | January 24 | Friday |
| 2021 | January 24 | Sunday |
| 2022 | January 24 | Monday |
| 2023 | January 24 | Tuesday |
