World Compliment Day

World Compliment Day is observed on March 1. Known as the “Most Positive Day in the World,” this non-commercial holiday focuses on the power of the spoken word to boost morale, strengthen relationships, and foster a more compassionate global community. Unlike many other holidays, it does not involve buying gifts or cards; its only currency is sincere, personalized appreciation. ¹

History of World Compliment Day

The holiday was founded by Hans Poortvliet, a professional recognition expert in the Netherlands. In the early 2000s, Poortvliet initiated “National Compliment Day” in his home country, but as the concept gained popularity online, he realized the need for a global version. He rebranded it as World Compliment Day to create a movement that transcends national and cultural boundaries.

The founder’s philosophy is based on the idea that “a sincere and personal compliment costs nothing, but the impact on the recipient is huge.” By choosing March 1, Poortvliet aimed to start the month with a wave of positivity that could potentially reduce workplace stress and social isolation. Since its inception, the day has been embraced by hundreds of organizations and thousands of individuals who see it as a simple way to practice “conscious appreciation.”

Why is World Compliment Day important?

This day is significant because it addresses a fundamental human need: the desire to be noticed and appreciated. In a fast-paced digital world, meaningful face-to-face (or person-to-person) recognition is often overlooked. Psychologically, receiving a compliment triggers the same reward centers in the brain—the striatum—as receiving a cash gift. This social reward can improve performance, increase self-esteem, and encourage prosocial behavior.

The observance is also a vital tool for improving workplace culture. Studies show that employees who feel appreciated are more engaged, productive, and loyal to their organizations. World Compliment Day encourages a shift from a “culture of criticism” to a “culture of recognition.” Because the day forbids commercialism, it ensures that the interaction remains authentic, forcing people to think deeply about what they truly value in the people around them.

• Sincere compliments release dopamine, the brain’s “reward” chemical.
• The holiday promotes social bonding by breaking down barriers between strangers and colleagues.
• It helps combat “compliment deficiency,” where people only receive feedback when something goes wrong.
• The day encourages people to look for the “good” in others rather than focusing on flaws.
• It serves as a free and accessible way to improve mental health and community spirit.

How to Celebrate World Compliment Day

The primary way to celebrate is to give at least three sincere, specific compliments to people in your life—friends, family, and especially those who might not expect it, like a barista, a delivery driver, or a quiet coworker. To be effective, a compliment should be genuine and specific (e.g., “I really admire how you handled that difficult client today” rather than a generic “Good job”).

On social media, you can use the hashtag #WorldComplimentDay to publicly acknowledge someone’s hard work or positive influence on your life. Many schools and offices celebrate by setting up “compliment walls” or “recognition boards” where people can post anonymous notes of appreciation for one another. If you are a manager, today is an excellent time to write a short, handwritten note to a team member highlighting a specific strength they bring to the group.

• Give a sincere compliment to a stranger to brighten their day.
• Write a “gratitude email” to a former mentor or teacher who inspired you.
• Leave a positive review online for a local business you appreciate.
• Challenge yourself to find a positive trait in someone you find difficult to work with.
• Compliment yourself in the mirror to practice self-love and confidence.

World Compliment Day Dates Table

1. https://worldcomplimentday.info/[↩]