I love to read sport psychology books; really they are the only books I read. Lately there is a lot about the power of a compliment and the affect on people.

I was doing the dreaded Christmas returns and as I was entering the mall, I noticed the lady in front of me had beautiful hair, colour, style, everything. I surprised myself by saying “I love your hair, its beautiful”. She turned to me smiled and said it was from a box. We both laughed, I said it was still amazing. She thanked me and went on her way.

Off I went to take a number and wait and wait and wait for my return. The lady that served me was head down, working away, focused on getting the job over with. I did notice her makeup was perfect, like a professional had done it, suited her to a tee. Rather than just thinking it, I told her. The change was instant, she smiled, we chatted, and she does her own makeup, wow, I wish I could do it that well. My return done, I left feeling I had made someone’s day a bit brighter.

As I walked to my car, with a bit of a skip to my step, I realised, wait a minute, I feel amazing.

My focus was on the power of a compliment for others but I didn’t realise the transformation in myself. I felt happier, almost giddy, like I had discovered a superpower.

I highly recommend you get out there and try it. It costs nothing to give and the reward is priceless.

(Ps, picture is a throwback to last summer)