Since we don’t all look like Benjamin Button, it’s unlikely that anyone over 50 can defy aging in reverse. Yet some individuals appear so good that you may feel compelled to offer complimentary remarks. Unfortunately, such compliments could end up hurting their feelings rather than flattering them.
Saying someone looks good for their age may seem like an insulting compliment, so here’s how you can avoid being taken in by this common compliment trap.
1. You’re Beautiful
Compliments should make people feel good about themselves; however, certain compliments can have the opposite effect; for instance saying something like, “You look amazing for your age” could actually damage a person’s self-esteem.
When giving compliments about someone’s appearance, praise them on something they can control such as their outfit or hairdo rather than using “for their age” as the qualifier – including that qualifier implies that younger ages look better while aging is something to fear.
Next time you feel inclined to complement someone with smooth skin, don’t add in “for their age”. People will appreciate your compliment more than you realize and won’t take offense if you point out any wrinkles; most important of all is showing them that beauty doesn’t depend on age alone.
3. You’re Happy
Even during tough times, you have reasons to be joyful. Being positive may help you recover more quickly from setbacks and can make you feel physically better – for instance, taking just two minutes each day for meditation can rewire your brain for optimism while improving physical health by lowering stress levels.
Sadness can be the opposite of happiness and can often be triggered by negative thinking. When feeling downhearted, it’s important to step back and identify what may be triggering it – for example if it’s been the loss of employment, consider looking for another position or setting career goals to find ways to change the course of your life.
Happiness is determined largely by your mindset. Take advantage of it by practicing gratitude, smiling often and treating others well; make time for friends and family, exercise regularly and pursue hobbies that bring you joy; also treat yourself kindly–being rude or impolite can drain your happiness; the more kindness you practice the greater will be your overall level of contentment!
4. You’re Smart
Complimenting someone on their intelligence may seem like an easy thing, but it’s crucial that it’s done in an appropriate manner. Instead of asking “Aren’t you so clever?,” try using “Aren’t you so smart?” which makes your statement less condescending and more supportive. People who are smart tend to be aware of their surroundings more and are usually better at anticipating situations before acting impulsively, exercising self-control when choosing between optimal versus easier courses of action, as well as conserving resources such as time and effort wisely by selecting battles (e.g. helping others at costs to themselves).
According to a 2008 psychology study, highly intelligent individuals often maintain an open mindset regarding other points of view and don’t form their opinions until hearing multiple viewpoints are considered. Such thinking has long been appreciated in both business and personal relationships alike.
Note that IQ alone doesn’t determine success: many highly intelligent individuals struggle with reaching their goals and end up at the bottom of their class. But if you see someone struggling, assure them that their perseverance will pay off over time.
5. You’re Funny
Funny people have the ability to turn life’s little details into comedic stories and jokes with ease. Their keen observational skills allow them to spot subtleties, patterns, or contradictions they can exploit for comic effect; their quick thinking allows them to respond swiftly and provide unexpectedly creative responses when situations arise.
Humor can be an effective weapon against life’s challenges. If you know someone with natural comedy chops, give them an honest compliment and let them know they make your day brighter when they make you laugh!
