National Compliment Day (January 24)
Check out the weird holiday National Compliment Day on January 24. Learn the history of Compliment Day, and get ideas on how to celebrate.
One weird holiday on January 24 is National Compliment Day. Check out the other weird January holidays!
History of National Compliment Day
This weird holiday was first started in 1998 by Kathy Chamberlin and Debby Hoffman in New Hampshire as a way to “tell the people in our lives how much we appreciate them.”
Complimenting other people has been around ever since man began speaking to one another. In the 14th century, the Latin word “complementum” came into existence, which meant “that which fills up or completes.”
The word complement (with an e) has more of the literal definition from the original Latin. Complement means “a thing that completes or brings to perfection.”
Then, in 1610, the verb to compliment (with an i instead of an e) was derived from the French word “complimenter” which means “to flatter or gratify by expression of admiration, respect.”
Forty years later, the noun compliment was changed from an e to an i (before they were used interchangeably) because the Italian noun “complimento,” which means “an expression of respect and civility.”
Then in 1722, another definition of compliment was added to the English dictionary as “a present or favor bestowed, a complimentary gift.”
As you can see, the spelling and meaning of compliment has changed over the centuries, but the idea has remained the same. We fill other people up and complete them when we acknowledge the good things they do and the skills that they have.
The best kinds of compliments have to do with a person’s character as opposed to physical or superficial attributes. Noticing a person’s integrity or skill has more weight than noticing if they dyed their hair or lost weight (although the latter is important as well!).
Complimenting others around us doesn’t need to be difficult or fancy, but it does need to be sincere. A genuine compliment not only spreads joy, but it helps form bonds between two people.
Do your best to give out five deliberate, heartfelt compliments today – bonus points if you give one to someone who don’t like much, like a difficult coworker. You’ll be amazed at how much it transforms your day!
Ideas for National Compliment Day
Other than complimenting everyone you meet, here are some ideas for National Compliment Day.
How to Teach Kids to Give Compliments
Help kids speak with kindness and give compliments on National Compliment Day with these compliment cards printable cards.
Ways To Show Compassion In Any Situation & Teach Our Kids
You can show compassion in many different scenarios and teach your child how to follow your example of compassion and empathy. You can help your kids out on National Compliment Day, and here are some ways you can show your compassion and teach your kids to do the same!
Random Acts of Kindness Day Ideas & PDF Printables
Today is National Compliment Day. Here are several creative Random Acts of Kindness Ideas for kids and adults plus free printables to spread joy and offer compliments.
15 Fun Ways for You to Give Words of Affirmation to Him
Whether for a husband or boyfriend, affirmation in the form of words is vital to a relationship. Why not start on National Compliment Day? This list of ideas will help you start speaking the Love Language Words of Affirmation for him.
Compliment Suns Friendship Craft
Use this friendship craft/kindness craft to help kids on National Compliment Day show their friends they love them and shower them with compliments.
Behind The Scenes To Raising A Caring Child
Children can learn empathy, respect, and compassion as they observe the example of their parents and when they are personally treated this way. Teaching our children these qualities and virtues is possible. Use National Compliment Day as a kickstarter to teaching your children about kindness.
Why and How to Do a Random Acts of Kindness Advent Calendar
Combat entitlement on National Compliment Day with a Random Acts of Kindness Advent Calendar! I’m sharing why kindness matters, random acts of kindness ideas, and tips for doing a month of random acts of kindness as individuals, kids, and families.
Flower Kindness Craft for Friends to Share and Give as Gifts
This flower kindness craft and friendship flower are the perfect way to show friends they are loved on National Compliment Day and to spread more kindness.
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