Science-Backed Tips

Boost Your Mood with Genuine Compliments

Experience a mood uplift of 0.8 points by giving compliments.


📊 Did you know?

People often think giving compliments will make them uncomfortable, but they actually enjoy a boost in mood, about 0.8 points higher than expected, encouraging more kindness.
Benefits

💡 Why It Matters

1️⃣

Encouraging spontaneous kindness can lead to mutual mood gains, enhancing social interactions.

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Increased frequency of compliments can foster a more positive community atmosphere.

3️⃣

Understanding the benefits of compliment-giving may lead to improved mental health outcomes.

Give it a try

✅ Try These Micro-Tips

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Give at least one genuine compliment each day to boost your mood.

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Spend 5 minutes reflecting on positive traits of others before interactions.

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Incorporate compliment-giving into your daily routine, such as during meals or meetings.

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Encourage friends and family to share compliments to create a supportive environment.

📚 The study

In a fascinating study by Boothby and Bohns (2021), researchers explored the underestimated power of compliments and their positive impact on mood. The findings revealed that individuals who give compliments experience a mood uplift of approximately 0.8 points higher than they initially predicted.
This significant result highlights the importance of breaking prediction errors and encourages us to offer more genuine compliments to one another.
By fostering spontaneous kindness, we can create a ripple effect that enhances social interactions and promotes a more positive community atmosphere.
The study emphasizes that understanding the benefits of compliment-giving can lead to improved mental health outcomes for both the giver and the receiver.
When we acknowledge the positive effects of our words, we not only uplift others but also enrich our own emotional well-being.
Therefore, let’s embrace the power of compliments and make them a regular part of our interactions, paving the way for mutual mood gains and a more supportive environment for everyone.

Source: Boothby, E. J., & Bohns, V. K. (2021). Underestimating the positive impact of our compliments on others. Journal of Experimental Psychology: General. Study Link

❓ Frequently Asked Questions ❓

Learn more

Why should I give compliments?

Giving compliments can enhance your mood and the mood of others around you. Research shows that the positive effects of compliment-giving are often greater than anticipated, leading to mutual mood gains.

How do compliments affect mental health?

Complimenting others can foster a supportive environment, which is beneficial for mental health. Increased frequency of compliments contributes to a more positive community atmosphere.

What is the best way to incorporate compliments into my daily routine?

You can incorporate compliment-giving during meals, meetings, or casual conversations. Aim to give at least one genuine compliment each day to boost both your mood and that of others.

How can I encourage others to give compliments?

Encouraging friends and family to share compliments can create a more supportive environment. You can start by modeling this behavior and expressing appreciation for their positive traits.

What should I reflect on before giving a compliment?

Spend a few minutes reflecting on the positive traits of others before your interactions. This practice can help you deliver more genuine and impactful compliments.

What are the predicted mood benefits of giving compliments?

Research indicates that the mood uplift from giving compliments is approximately 0.8 points higher than what individuals predict. This highlights the underestimated positivity associated with compliment-giving.

How does compliment-giving promote spontaneous kindness?

Compliment-giving encourages individuals to act kindly without premeditation, fostering a culture of positivity. This spontaneous kindness can enhance social interactions and strengthen relationships.

Can compliment-giving improve community atmosphere?

Yes, increased frequency of compliments can significantly enhance the overall atmosphere of a community. A positive environment encourages more interactions and strengthens social bonds.

What is the impact of compliment-giving on social interactions?

Compliment-giving can lead to improved social interactions by creating a more positive and supportive atmosphere. This can result in stronger connections and a sense of belonging among individuals.

How can I measure the effects of giving compliments?

While subjective, you can gauge the effects of giving compliments by reflecting on your mood before and after the act. Additionally, observing the reactions of others can provide insight into the positive impact of your compliments.

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