Compliment Challenge: Make Someone’s Day
Maya Angelou famously said, “People won’t always remember what you said, but they will remember how you made them feel.”
On average, we come into contact with 80,000 people in our lifetime. Most of those interactions won’t be grand or life-changing—but they all matter.
As leaders, parents, friends, and colleagues, we have the power to leave people better than we found them. And that power comes from empathy, kindness, and emotional intelligence.
But here’s the real question: How do you know how you make people feel?
Here are three ways to find out:
Pay attention to body language and energy. Do people lean in when you speak? Do they walk away lighter or heavier? People’s body language will often tell you more than their words.
Ask for feedback. It takes courage, but simple questions like, “How did that land with you?” or “How do you feel about what we just discussed?” can provide eye-opening insights.
Self-assess honestly. After conversations, ask yourself: Did I listen more than I talked? Did I assume good intentions? Did I show kindness, even in tough moments?
Compliment Challenge: Make Someone’s Day
Something I’ve always reminded my boys: If you think something nice, say it.
If you liked the cafeteria food, track down the lunch attendant and tell them.
If you thought someone played a great game, let them know.
If you admire someone’s style, say so.
We often assume people know they’re doing a great job or that they’re appreciated. But they don’t—not unless we tell them.
So today, give one intentional compliment. It costs nothing, takes seconds, and could be the thing that brightens someone’s entire day.
Be who you came to be. Love will guide you.
