COMPLIMENT, DON'T CRITICISE.. 

This week I want to talk to you about why you should always try to compliment and not criticise someone, or come across like you are complaining about something they may have done.

It's so easy to quickly fall into the trap of unconsciously criticising other people around us, if or when we see something that we think could be improved or done differently by them. However, it's also so easy and important for us to always remember the power of someone hearing a compliment over a criticism.

When we compliment someone, they know we are taking time to outwardly acknowledge and appreciate them, which naturally boosts their confidence and self-esteem. Doing this will also unconsciously motivate them to continue doing their best, both for themselves and for us, as it is a good feeling that they want to experience again.

But, on the other hand, anything that sounds to them like personal criticism, whether genuine or perceived, always leads to them feeling demotivated. It may also lead to them having feelings of anger towards you subconsciously, whether children or adults. Adults are usually better at hiding their feelings, but if you watch them carefully, you can sometimes see suppressed anger coming out as passive-aggressive behaviour.

Here are some examples of complimenting and not criticising:

• Instead of criticising someone for a mistake they may have made, try to compliment them for their positive qualities and say how much you really respect and appreciate them.

• Instead of criticising someone for getting something wrong when they have done something, try to compliment them on their hard work and the fact that they made such an effort when doing it.
 • Instead of criticising someone for forgetting to do something, try to compliment them on all the other positive things that they usually do that help you

However, there must be a healthy balance between compliments and criticism to help people. There's also value in constructive criticism, as criticism, if given respectfully and constructively, provides helpful feedback that lets people grow and improve. Without this, people may sometimes not see areas for improvement, or reach their potential. And constantly giving compliments without constructive criticism may even backfire and actually lead to complacency and demotivation.

So, this week, make a real effort to compliment more and criticise less and the next time that you feel the urge to criticise someone, try to instead find something positive to compliment them about. Remember, a kind word always goes a long way!"