Spread the (Good) Word… It’s World Compliment Day!

It began a decade ago in the Netherlands as "National Compliment Day" and now it's a worldwide movement. World Compliment Day is a day to compliment someone in your life on something he or she does well. A pessimist would note that it's a sorry commentary on the state of the world that we might actually need to be reminded to express our appreciation to one another, but pessimists will not be allowed to ruin the spirit of the day.

From the website, www.worldcomplimentday.com : ‘World Compliment Day’ simply addresses the basic human need for recognition and appreciation. Nobody wins commercially, but everybody gains emotionally. And therein lies its power. March 1st is just about consciously reflecting on what someone in your area does well and letting that person know he/she is sincerely appreciated for that. It should be done through words instead of gifts. "A sincere and personal compliment costs nothing, but the impact on the recipient is huge," says Hans Poortvliet, recognition professional and the driving force behind the annual event in the Netherlands. "Nothing stimulates more, gives more energy, makes people happier and, as far as business is concerned, increases productivity and commitment faster than sincere appreciation. So why not use it a little bit more?"

It shouldn't be hard to find three people who deserve a sincere compliment from you today. In fact, I'll bet you've thought of a half dozen already. Go ahead. Tell them. It'll make their day.