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 - History
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
1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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
1. "Anchorman"
Ron Burgundy: “You’re like a miniature Buddha, covered in hair.”
2. “The Help”
Aibileen: “You is kind, you is smart, you is important.”
3. "Elf"
Buddy: "You have such a pretty face, you should be on a Christmas card!”
4. “Jerry Maguire”
Jerry: “You complete me.”
5. “Christmas Vacation”
Clark Griswold: “My cousin in-law, whose heart is bigger than his brain, is innocent.”
Why We Love National Compliment Day
A. 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.
B. 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.
C. 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.
