Years ago, while scrolling through Facebook, I read something posted by Sarah Peck. And I’ve never forgotten it.
Sarah is one of the most encouraging people I know online and she always makes me smile. Her post was a simple, life-changing thought:
“Facebook ‘likes’ are free. It doesn’t cost you anything to hand them out. So go for it.”
Sarah was offering a quick commentary on how we use Facebook. It doesn’t cost anything to click “like” on somebody’s photo, status update, or new Group page. So do it. I mean, why not? Be an encouragement to someone by clicking the like button (and now the “love” or “wow” button). You’re already scrolling through Facebook anyway.
Her simple post changed how I use Facebook. I used to just scroll and scan, but now I click “like.” It’s a simple way to tell somebody that you noticed them. The same principle applies to Instagram and Twitter and Snapchat and Youtube.
It also applies to podcasts and books and apps. In fact, one of the most important things you can do for a podcaster, author, or app developer is leave a positive review on their product. That’s why, if you interact at all online, you have almost certainly been asked to leave a review. Those are important—and again, totally free to hand out.
If you enjoy a podcast or new app, leave a positive review. If you read a good book, leave a 5-star review on Amazon or Barnes and Noble. If you read a blog post, leave a comment or share it. These simple actions cost nothing, take only seconds to complete, and provide valuable encouragement to the author/creator. It’s a simple act with a huge impact.
And in an Internet world with so much negativity, shouldn’t we be passing out as much positivity as possible? (tweet that)
Of course, Sarah’s advice extends far beyond social media. Perhaps, even more importantly, her thoughts extend to our in-person relationships as well.
Compliments are free. It costs us literally nothing to use kind words. So why not use them as much as possible?
It’s nice to receive long, thoughtful, drawn-out compliments, but not every kind word needs to be this way. Sometimes just one short sentence can be enough to change the entire course of somebody’s day:
- “You did a good job.”
- “It’s nice to see you.”
- “That’s really funny.”
- “You are so thoughtful.”
- “You are one of the kindest people I know.”
- “I’m glad I get to work with you.”
- “You look really nice today.”
- “You always brighten my day.”
- “I’m proud of you son.”
Each of these compliments take only seconds. And they don’t cost anything to hand out. So just go for it.
In a world full of negativity, everybody can use a little more positivity in their lives.
Besides, you are a beautiful person. And a compliment from you would mean more than you know.
Melissa Kelly says
Awesome post! I always enjoy reading your blog.
Beth says
This post was perfect for this Monday! It’s easy to forget that everyone needs a little encouragement once in a while, and a lot of people seem to need it, today!
Loretta says
Thank you for the simple but powerful reminder! I don’t subscribe to many blogs but yours is one of my absolute favorites. Thank you for your simplicity and for your work to help the needy!
Christi says
Thanks for the the reminder about everyday kindness. We rush through life more & more, forgetting the basics of kindness & grace… I always get encouragement from your writing. Thanks again!
Di says
So true!
Elizabeth says
“You always brighten my day.” ;-)
Elizabeth says
PS. While we were in college, my best friend worked as a waitress at a well-known restaurant that served pie. The pies were placed under glass domes on the counter and customers could walk right up and order a slice. My friend always made a point of giving the customer the very best piece — because “there is always a best piece.” I consider this the wisest customer service advice I’ve ever heard! Similarly, giving compliments to others is easy, as there is always something we can say or do to make another person happy.
Belinda Morales says
Absolutely true ! Thanks for your inspiring words Joshua . I enjoy your blog . I am guilty of scrolling and scanning and never liking or commenting . That will change .
jessica says
And she is so right. I’ve ben reading your blog for quite à long time and never posted any comment although I do love your posts. Sorry about that. Keep going with your work it’s awesome.
Cristina says
Thank you for keeping up with the reminders to live,truly live, with less!
Lindsey says
Love the message in this blog … So here it is a long over due THANK YOU for inspiring me to live a better life and for the impact that has on those around me. Keep it coming.
Daniel Tipping says
I love it, Josh!
I wrote a really similar blog post a while back titled ‘With Compliments’, I would love for you to check it out and see what you think!
http://www.itsaboutbeingbetter.com/blog/with-compliments