How To Confidently Tell Someone You Like Them

In recent years, I've been more forthcoming in my expressions of love, admiration, and regard for the people around me -- from complete strangers to romantic partners.

I've come to the conclusion that life is short, and if you think or feel something positive about another person, you should tell them -- even if it creates an awkward moment.

For me, it seems like a waste of good karma to allow loving, positive thoughts to remain locked up in my mind. Why not express them and give someone a boost and put a smile on their face?

I don't reserve these comments just for the people in my closest circles. I speak them to anyone I encounter if there's something positive on my mind that could brighten their day.

I've commented on the warm demeanor of a server in a restaurant, and I've told the check-out lady at the grocery store that she has beautiful eyes. I've thanked the mailman for his hard work and told a mom in the park how great she is with her kids.

Sometimes these people look at me like I have two heads, but once they realize I'm not a loony tune or trying to hit on them, they accept the comment and enjoy the good feeling of being told something nice with no strings attached.

I wasn't always able to express my thoughts and feelings so readily -- at the least the positive ones. As a younger person, I didn't have the confidence to speak as freely for fear I'd be rejected or diminished in some way.

Isn't it strange how we don't have much trouble pointing out the negative things  about others, but telling someone we like them and sharing something complimentary feels so difficult? This is particularly true in a romantic connection when you feel you have so much on the line if you say too much, too soon.

The ability to say what you feel in a non-threatening, non-creepy way is truly a gift, both for you and the other person. It reflects self-confidence and a loving spirit that builds rapport and intimacy, and it creates a ripple effect of positivity that often gets passed on by the recipient of your kind words.