Think about the last time someone gave you a compliment. How did it make you feel? Chances are, it made you feel pretty good. Now, think about the last time you gave someone a compliment. Again, how did that make you feel? If you're like most people, giving a compliment probably made you feel just as good as receiving one.

That's because compliments are powerful. Compliments have the power to connect. Compliments have the ability to make people feel happy, appreciated, and valued. And when people feel happy, comfortable, appreciated, respected, loved, and valued, they're more likely to be successful in all areas of their lives.

There's science to back up the assertion that compliments can make you happier and more successful. Studies have shown that compliments increase levels of oxytocin, also known as the "love hormone." Oxytocin is associated with happiness, stress relief, and even pain relief. Oxytocin is also thought to promote bonding and trust between people.

In addition to making us feel good on an emotional level, compliments also have the power to increase our motivation and productivity levels. That's because when we receive compliments, our brains release dopamine—a chemical that's associated with pleasure and reward. Dopamine has been shown to increase levels of focus and concentration. It's also thought to play a role in memory formation and retrieval.

Now that we know how powerful compliments can be, let's talk about how we can start giving them more often.

If your compliment doesn't come from a place of sincerity, the recipient will be able to tell, and it will do more harm than good. When you give a compliment, make sure it's something that you actually mean.

For example, instead of saying "Great job!" try something like "I really appreciate the hard work you put into this project – especially when you delivered the reports on time." A specific compliment shows that you're genuinely paying attention and that you value the other person's efforts.

A few genuine compliments are usually better than a bunch of insincere ones. Too many compliments can also make you seem insincere or even desperate.

Empty flattery is when you give someone a compliment simply for the sake of giving them a compliment with no real meaning behind it. For example, "You're so beautiful!" is an empty flattery. Not only is empty flattery insincere, but it can also make the recipient feel uncomfortable or even insulted. Instead be specific, for example "I love your new haircut!" or "the color lavender looks great on you!"

The Inner Genius Profile and tools help with connection because it provides a framework for understanding yourself and others. Unlocking your Inner Genius helps you to communicate more effectively and to create deeper connections with others. The profile can help you to learn more about yourself, your Genius Zone, and how you can best connect with others. The tools can help you to supercharge your communication and influence others in a positive way, and to create more meaningful relationships.

Paying compliments is a great way to show appreciation and build rapport with others. Just be sure to do it genuinely, specifically, and sincerely. Next time you're feeling low or struggling with something at work or home, try giving someone a sincere compliment—you may just find yourself feeling happier and more successful as a result!