Thanks so much for the commentary. You bring out some important points, Firstly, what was modeled and taught to us. It was actually a relative who told me that complimenting (for lack of a better word) was indulgent. I'm pretty sure it was that way in the house she grew up in. I distinctly remember my dad calling an arrogant man a "big-feelin' guy." So, indeed, at least in my Midwestern background, we were taught to be quiet and humble about our strengths.

And then the empty slogans. I meant to include a story about a boss who would stop by my office and sign off with "Good job." One day I asked him if he could tell me specifically how I was doing a good. He was mute. I vowed that day that I would always do better than that.

"It’s not about compliments. It’s about noticing what is important to another person and offering a boost in that area.” Wow, John. Maybe I should sell that slogan to Successories. I know someone who knows the owner :)

Thanks again for your always thoughtful response.