"Oh my gosh, I love your Instagram."
"Your Facebook post was so funny."
"You are such a good Photographer, I saw your posts on Instagram."
"You are so good at editing videos!"
As a Millennial, I am seeing an increase in compliments that are more on how we look on social media, not necessarily for who we are as a person. Now, don't get me wrong. I love instagram, I love social media, but lately I have been seeing a huge difference in the compliments we receive, verses what our grandparents or ancestors received.
Now a days, somebody saying "I loved your picture you posted" can actually make your day. I can't help but look back a few generations. Complements were not relient on social media postings, or photography. They were cleary more focused on character. Now, do not get me wrong. Photography is a gift, and some people work really hard to make their social media account reflect who they are. The conflict I am facing is that when our grandparents were complimented, they were never focused on media, or how something looked. They were more associated with character.
"He is such a hard worker."
"She is so kind."
"He would help anyone."
"She is so genuine."
See the difference?
Don't stop complimenting people on the new talents and opportunities that we have in this world. It is a part of the times we are in, and it is good to accept that. But don't let it take away from you being able to see that persons character. Yes, their Tumblr might be #goals, but what is special about them? My goal and dream is that I will be able to compliment, and see people more on their character than their works.
When we pull out the gold in people for who they are and not for what they did, I believe it is more lasting and special. So keep on complimenting on whatever you feel needs to be praised, but make sure to look at the person! We are all created and blessed with certain traits that are there when all the technology disappears.
