10 Compliments to Give More of

I have been wrestling lately with what I can do to make a difference in the lives of those currently struggling with an eating or body-related disorder. I’ve been pondering what would have been helpful when I was in the midst of my darkest days or what could have potentially changed the course of my life. Spoiler alert: I don’t have an answer. But I do have some advice. I have compiled some ways in which I believe are helpful in fostering a healthy relationship with both others and yourself. Starting with words (compliments more specifically).

We hold so much power in our words and it’s about time we become more intentional with how we are using them. In order to revolutionize the way we (women in particular) feel about ourselves, we have to work on how and what we verbalize to each other. If we begin changing the way we speak to others, I believe in turn we can change the narrative we tell ourselves.

Let me preface this by saying, I do not think there is such a thing as a “bad” or a “wrong” compliment. A compliment is a compliment and receiving them addresses the basic human need for recognition. Unfortunately, that recognition has long come from our appearance and materialistic belongings. It’s so easy to point out someone’s hair, their shoes or how great their body looks. But what is this teaching us? What power are those words holding over us? Are those word lifting us up or are they awakening the desire to be validated for what we have on the table opposed to what we are bringing to it.

What would happen if we started to shift the way we applaud our daughters, our sisters and our friends? What if we focused a little bit more on our internal qualities opposed to our external ones. Maybe, just maybe then we as women can start to see ourselves in a new light. One that shines no matter what we weigh, how nice our hair looks or how fancy our clothes are.

Here are 10 compliments to start giving more of:

1. You are brave.
2. You are strong.
3. You are loved.
4. You are capable.
5. Your opinion matters.
6. You are enough.
7. You make me smile.
8. You are resilient.
9. You are powerful.
10. You are important.

Carry on Warrior.

XX, Paige