A sincere compliment takes seconds to give and can stay with someone for days. National Compliment Day, on January 24, encourages everyone to give at least a few genuine compliments to the people around them. It is not about flattery or empty praise. The best compliments are specific and honest, recognizing someone's effort, kindness, skill or character. In the gray days of January, a kind word can make a real difference.
History of National Compliment Day
National Compliment Day was created in 1998 by Debby Hoffman and Kathy Chamberlin of New Hampshire. They wanted a day that encouraged people to notice and appreciate each other, and they suggested that everyone give at least five compliments that day.
The idea is simple, and it caught on. Schools, workplaces and community groups adopted the day as a way to build kindness and positive relationships. Teachers use it for classroom activities, and businesses use it to recognize employees and customers.
The day fits with a broader interest in gratitude and positive psychology. Researchers have studied how expressing appreciation can strengthen relationships, and many people find that giving compliments improves their own mood as well as the recipient's.
Why National Compliment Day Matters
People often underestimate how much a compliment will mean to someone else. A specific, sincere comment can boost confidence and strengthen relationships.
Giving compliments also trains us to notice the good in others, which can make everyday life more positive.
How to Celebrate National Compliment Day
- Be specific: say exactly what you appreciated, such as 'Your presentation made a complex topic easy to follow.'
- Compliment effort, not just appearance: recognize hard work, kindness and creativity.
- Give five: try the founders' challenge of five compliments in one day.
- Write it down: leave a sticky note or send a short message.
- Accept compliments graciously: a simple 'thank you' is enough.
Celebrating at Work, School and Home
At work, managers can recognize specific contributions in a team meeting, and colleagues can leave anonymous compliments on a shared board or in a 'kudos' channel. Specific praise for effort and skill works better than general comments. In classrooms, students can draw a classmate's name and write a kind, specific compliment about them, creating a compliment wall. Teachers can model how to give compliments about effort and character rather than looks. At home, families can share one compliment for each person at dinner, and parents can tell children something specific they admire. Do not forget to compliment people you see every day but rarely thank, like bus drivers and cafeteria staff.
Fun Facts About National Compliment Day
- National Compliment Day began in 1998 in New Hampshire.
- Its founders suggested giving at least five compliments on the day.
- Studies suggest people underestimate how good others feel after receiving a compliment.
National Compliment Day FAQs
When is National Compliment Day?
National Compliment Day is January 24.
Who created National Compliment Day?
Debby Hoffman and Kathy Chamberlin of New Hampshire created it in 1998.
What makes a good compliment?
It is sincere and specific, focusing on effort, kindness or skill.
How should I respond to a compliment?
A simple, warm 'thank you' is the best response.