Complimentary

In my previous post, I shared some hopes for 2013, ways I want to make the world a little better. Already I had the opportunity to do a few.

"Idle words are characterless and die upon utterance. Evil words rankle for a while, make contentions, and then die. But the hopeful, kind, cheering word sinks into a man’s heart and goes on bearing fruit forever. How many beautiful written words—words in book and song and story—are still inspiring men and making the world fragrant with their beauty! It is just so with the words you write, not on paper, but on the hearts of men."
The Enlargement of Life (1903) By Frederick Henry Lynch

GOAL: Compliment someone I have a hard time complimenting… and mean it.
So, without mentioning anyone by name, I have to be in regular contact with someone who has a unique ability to irritate the FIRE out of me like almost no one else. Last week, I observed him for a moment interacting with a person who was being incredibly difficult. In a moment of Zen-like clarity, I was able to truly appreciate that, as annoyed as I can get, he has two qualities I wish I had--incredible amounts of patience and an innate gentleness in dealing with people. And in the realization of those qualities, my appreciation for him grew. Then, I remembered my goals, so I took advantage of the moment, and shared my appreciation out loud, explaining to him how patient he had been with that person and telling him I wish I had that ability.

I think it made him feel good. But weirdly, it made me feel good, too. And it made me actually like him a little more. I won't say it's changed everything I feel about that guy, but it's gone a long way in helping my own patience with him grow.

Interestingly, I ran across a great article on the website "The Art of Manliness" (Yeah, I know, I am a chick, but sometimes that site has cool stuff!). It's an extensive look at the art of complimenting. A great read if you a have a few minutes for personal development. Too Seldom Heard an Encouraging Word: Why and How to Offer More Compliments.

What if we all tried to look for opportunities to offer more compliments? What a small simple thing to do, but what incredible implications it could have for making our own corners of the world a better place.