A Five-Day Spiritual Workout: Day 4

Today's exercise will help you extend your loving spirit to others.

Day 4: Say Something Nice

If you want to lift people off the ground - compliment them. Compliments are the helium that fills everyone's balloon; they elevate the person receiving them so he or she can fly over life's troubles and land safely on the other side, to be received with open arms.

When you motivate others with words of kindness, you will receive a surge of creative energy, too. I am not talking about giving false compliments to make someone feel better; I am talking about giving people the encouragement to face a challenge rather than submit to their fears. If someone you love is singing or performing in any way, your kind words can inspire the person to share his or her talents with the world. Sometimes it is the small things in life that truly help us to feel empowered. For this exercise, dedicate at least one week to giving out three genuine compliments a day, and watch how this changes the level of enthusiasm you feel toward yourself and others.

I carry pins with me that say "You Make a Difference" and give them to people I see acting in a way that is life-enhancing. Recently at the grocery store, I gave an employee a card I received as a valued customer. The card said she was special, and her smile rewarded me.

Also, remember to say thank you when compliments are sent your way. When we circulate our thanks and our compliments, the world becomes a better place.

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