National Compliment Day
A day dedicated to the simple, powerful act of giving genuine compliments. Brighten someone's world with words that uplift, encourage, and celebrate.
What Is National Compliment Day?
Created in 1998 by Kathy Chamberlin and Debby Hoffman of New Hampshire, National Compliment Day encourages people to share sincere, uplifting words with those around them. The founders noticed how rare genuine compliments had become and wanted to create a day that reminded people of their power.
Research shows compliments trigger dopamine release, improve self-esteem, strengthen relationships, and even boost workplace performance. A well-timed, genuine compliment can change someone's entire dayâor even their trajectory.
Why Celebrate?
Combat Negativity Bias
Our brains are wired to focus on criticism. Compliments counteract that bias and help people see their strengths, value, and impact.
Build Confidence
Genuine compliments remind people what they\'re good at. For someone doubting themselves, your words might be exactly what they need to keep going.
Strengthen Bonds
Compliments create positive associations. When you consistently recognize someone's qualities, you deepen trust and connection in your relationship.
It Costs Nothing
Compliments are free, take seconds to give, and can create ripple effects of positivity. Few things offer such a high return on such little investment.
Ways to Celebrate
Give Five Sincere Compliments Today
Set a goal to compliment five different people. Make each one specific and genuineânot generic flattery, but real observations about their qualities or contributions.
Create a Group Compliment Card
Pick someone who deserves recognition and gather compliments from friends, family, or colleagues. Imagine receiving dozens of kind words all at onceâpowerful stuff.
Leave Anonymous Notes
Write kind messages on sticky notes and leave them in public placesâon mirrors, in library books, on coworkers' desks. Spread compliments like confetti.
Start a Compliment Chain
Text or email a compliment to someone and ask them to pass one along to someone else. Watch positivity ripple through your network.
Compliment Strangers (Appropriately)
Tell the barista their coffee art is impressive. Compliment someone's unique style. Keep it respectful, specific, and non-creepyâgenuine appreciation, not hitting on people.
Write a Letter You've Been Putting Off
Finally tell your old teacher, mentor, or friend how much they meant to you. Often we wait until it's too lateâtoday is the day to send that message.
Genuine Compliment Ideas
"I genuinely admire how you show up for the people you care about. Your loyalty and kindness don't go unnoticedâyou make life better just by being in it."
"Your attention to detail on that last project was incredible. You consistently raise the bar for all of us. Working with you makes me want to do better work."
"I don't say this enough, but your strength through everything you've faced inspires me. You handle challenges with grace I can only hope to learn from."
"The way you invest in others without expecting anything in return is rare and beautiful. You've shaped who I am today, and I'm so grateful for your guidance."
"Your ability to make me laugh even on the hardest days is a gift I don't take for granted. You bring light to my life in ways you might not even realize."
"I see you downplay your abilities, but I want you to know: you're so much more capable than you give yourself credit for. Your talent is real, and it shines."
"Your patience and kindness toward every customerâeven the difficult onesâis something special. You make hard jobs look easy. Thank you for all you do."
"The way you see the world differently and bring that perspective to life through your work is genuinely inspiring. Don't stop creatingâyour voice matters."
How to Give Great Compliments
Be Specific, Not Generic
"You\'re great" feels hollow. "The way you handled that difficult conversation with empathy and clarity was impressive" lands. Details make compliments believable and meaningful.
Focus on Effort and Character, Not Just Results
Complimenting someone's hard work, kindness, or resilience is often more powerful than praising outcomes. It recognizes who they are, not just what they achieved.
Avoid Backhanded Compliments
"You\'re pretty for your age" or "You\'re smarter than you look" aren\'t complimentsâthey\'re insults wrapped in flattery. Keep it purely positive.
Make Eye Contact and Mean It
If giving a compliment in person, look them in the eye and speak with sincerity. Half-hearted compliments feel performative. Own your words.
Common Questions
What if someone thinks I'm being fake?
If your compliment is genuine and specific, most people will recognize sincerity. The more detailed and personal, the less likely it feels disingenuous.
Can I compliment physical appearance?
You can, but be thoughtful. Complimenting style choices ("That color looks great on you") is safer than commenting on body features, especially with people you don't know well.
What if I'm not good at giving compliments?
Start small and simple. Even "I appreciate you" or "You did a great job on that" matters. The more you practice, the more natural it becomes.
How do I accept compliments gracefully?
Just say "Thank you" and mean it. Deflecting or downplaying compliments can make the giver feel dismissed. Receive their kindness with gratitude.
Should I compliment my boss or is that awkward?
Absolutely compliment your boss! Leaders rarely receive genuine positive feedback. Be professional and specificâthey'll likely appreciate it more than you think.
Other January Occasions
Share Compliments That Matter
Gather genuine compliments from multiple people into one beautiful card. Give someone a collection of kind words they can revisit forever.
Create Compliment Card