10 Compliments That Have Nothing to Do With Appearance
Think about the last time someone told you they really liked your ideas or the way you feel compassion for those around you. Now, think about the last time someone said your shirt was pretty or your hair looked nice.
Which compliment gave you a bigger boost?
Spreading compliments and kindness is one of the easiest ways to lift the vibrations of the world around you, but we often get caught up in the trap of compliments that focus on appearance rather than the substance of our being.
And frankly, you never know what kind of discomfort or insecurities someone might be facing regarding their physical appearance – even something as seemingly kind admiring someone’s smile can cause anxiety for an individual facing self-esteem issues or challenges.
That’s why we’re here today to highlight 10 compliments that will lift vibrations and spread joy without making any unwarranted comments about the way someone looks. After all, isn’t it time that we stop placing so much value in appearances and start focusing more on the things that truly make a person beautiful, like their kindness, their generosity, or their optimistic spirit?
So, if you want to become a master at compliments that fill the heart with joy, keep reading!
10 Compliments That Have Nothing to Do With Physical Appearance
The following compliments are deeper and more meaningful because they speak to an individual’s heart rather than on the surface.
1. You’re Such a Good Listener
When people make an effort to listen to what you have to say, letting them know that you appreciate that effort will lead to even more support.
Most folks are dealing with so much of their own stress and anxiety that it can be difficult to make space for the concerns and worries of those around them.
When someone makes that emotional space to listen to what you have to say, complimenting them on their listening skills will create a symbiotic exchange of energy that is healing and harmonious.
2. Your Passion is so Inspiring
Even if your interests differ from an individual, you may still admire their passion for a certain subject – so much so that their passion might ignite a fire within you and urge you to explore your own desires and drive.
Letting someone know that their passion is inspiring will encourage them to keep going at it and follow their dreams.
When you see a friend, family member, or colleague putting their all into their work or creative projects, let them know that their hard work influences those around them in a positive, encouraging way! This is a positive complement that is sure to inspire.
You might also want to read: Why Is Empathy So Important?
3. Your Strength & Resilience is Admirable
2020 was a hard year, and we each faced our own unique challenges.
When you see that someone has overcome struggles and made it to a calmer, more stable place, celebrate their strength with them! Reminding someone that they’ve made it through the hardest parts will help them feel stronger and more prepared for the next bump in the road.
Life is a balance of highs and lows, and it’s important to remember that both positive and negative experiences are necessary for life. But giving a loving reminder of someone’s resilience and tenacity might boost their mood to an even better place.
4. I Love Your Personality
Haven’t you ever wanted to be appreciated for all of your quirks and eccentricities? When someone notices the little, unique things about you and finds them beautiful, it feels like you’re being seen for the first time. This personality compliment is the way to go.
While we may not be used to telling someone how much their personality – how they act, how they treat people, the things they like, the objects they surround themselves with – it may be exactly what someone needs to hear to feel comfortable in their spirit.
Compliment someone on their adorable obsession with Harry Potter or their need for a cup of lavender tea each night before bed. Let someone know how sweet you think it is when they offer you the last bite or take your dishes to the sink.
Notice who they are and tell them how much you appreciate those things about them.
5. Your Authenticity is Contagious
In a society so focused on social media and fitting in, it can be a real act of bravery to share your true self with the world. The pressure we feel to fulfill social norms often outweighs the desire to be our most authentic selves.
When you notice that someone is staying true to their genuine nature, let them know how admirable that is!
6. I Feel Like I Can Be Myself Around You
When you let someone know how welcoming their energy is, they feel centered in their being, comforted in the fact that they’re projecting positive, nonjudgmental vibrations. And let’s face it, there are plenty of people in the world with whom we do not feel comfortable sharing our true personalities.
If you have a friend or family member that helps you feel comfortable in your own skin, acknowledge it – letting them know that you can be yourself around them will create a deeper, more intimate bond.
Read this one next: Why You Need to Build Resilience
7. I Love Your Taste
Taste is subjective, to be sure. But have you ever played your favorite playlist for a friend only to be met with blank stares or even a bit of teasing?
Sharing your taste in music, movies, books, and other interests can be nerve-racking, so when someone lets their guard down and shares a cool new album or an interesting arthouse film with you, let them know you enjoyed it!
Telling someone they have good taste is an instant confidence booster – and if you open your mind to new experiences, you may discover things that you won’t be able to believe you lived without for so long.
8. You’re so Creative
Even the most seasoned artist still likes to hear that their mind and their style are creative. I am an avid crafter, and I still get giddy sharing my latest creations with friends and family. To hear, “You’re so creative,” is like the icing on the cake.
If you can see that someone has put time and effort into a creative project, compliment them for their efforts and artistry.
9. Your Sense of Humor Always Makes Me Laugh
One of the best experiences in life is the joy of laughter, and when someone can make you laugh, it’s a beautiful thing.
If you know someone that always brings a smile to your face, tell them how much you appreciate their sense of humor. This will boost their confidence in joking around, letting them know that their lighthearted energy is appreciated. What a positive compliment to bestow!
10. Your Positivity Always Lifts My Spirits
Life is a balance of sweet and sour, and maintaining a positive outlook in the presence of sour experiences can be extremely difficult. When someone is doing their best to stay positive and keep the energy raised, the least they deserve is recognition of their optimistic attitude – because you can bet that they have to work on maintaining that all through the day.
And telling someone that their positivity is helpful for others will only encourage them to maintain that demeanor!
Compliment the Soul & Mind
There are so many reasons to appreciate someone that has nothing to do with their appearance, and commenting on and complimenting those things may be more helpful than you ever knew.
When we lift others up, we’re not only encouraging them to stay strong and keep going, but we’re also lifting our own vibrations by injecting more positive energy into the atmosphere. It’s a win-win situation!
So, be observant, notice the little things about the people around you, and admire them for who they are, not what they look like. Even though every person possesses some external beauty, it is the beauty lying within that has the capacity to penetrate the soul.
Related article: How to Create Your Own Book of Affirmations
