“Phenomena are preceded by the heart, ruled by the heart, made of the heart. If you speak and act with a calm, bright heart, then happiness follows you, like shadow that never leaves.”-Dhammapada, 1, translated by Thanissaro Bhikku

A compliment is a powerful way to make a great first impression with those around you. It requires very little effort to provide a compliment and the rewards are endless.

Do not be afraid to give compliments. We all have things in our lives that cause us to feel unsure, to feel as though we have failed and a compliment provides a lift, if only momentary…and those who receive the compliment will secretly bless you for it.

Sometimes a well-timed compliment will be just the thing needed to change a person’s life for the better.

Know this: There is a difference between a compliment and flattery. Most individuals dislike flattery. Compliments are sincere. Flattery is not. Sincerity is the difference between the two. A compliment is a courteous expression of commendation or approval, whether sincere or merely formal. Flattery is never sincere and it plays on self-love or vanity by artful praise.

Think about one of the following laws of the universe:

That which you praise is multiplied.

If you praise a person’s generosity, he will become more generous; if you praise a person’s beauty, she will become more beautiful; if you praise a person’s talent, he will become more talented and so on.

Did you know? You can also use direct praise, in private, on yourself just as effectively. Praise your good points, and they will increase; praise your abilities and you will become more able and so on. Praise is a multiplier. Just imagine the power you possess to multiply the goodness of the world around you!

Sidebar: If you feel you cannot actually compliment a person, do not do so. It is better to be silent than give an insincere word of praise. A smile or an expression of interest will sometimes serve just as well. Begin to enjoy life and you will cause others to enjoy it with you! If you choose to see chaos in the world and defects in yourself and others, you will surely find them. If you choose to see order and perfection, charm and beauty, they will make themselves clearly visible to you.

There few who can resist the magnetism of being liked. Who will you compliment today?