Is it cruel to be kind? One in five people say they are reluctant to pay top-ups in case it offends
- About 20 percent of people fear comments about their appearance, dress or work.
- Only a quarter of people in one study said they regularly compliment others.
They’re notoriously gratuitous, but giving compliments is something one in five of us are now reluctant to do in case it offends.
Researchers found that 20 percent of people worry that remarks about their appearance, appearance, dress or performance at work could cause unintended embarrassment or upset.
Some 45 percent of those surveyed said receiving a spontaneous compliment or kind remark still brightened their day, but only a quarter said they regularly compliment others in their daily lives.
Younger people are the most reluctant to risk a kind word, with one in four Millennials – those aged 25 to 39 – saying it could offend.
Generation
But older people are much more likely to be bold and give a compliment. Just 16 percent of people older than 55 – or baby boomers – said they were worried about offending.
Researchers found that 20 percent of people worry that remarks about their appearance, appearance, dress, or job performance could cause unintended embarrassment or upset.
Older people are much more likely to be bold and give a compliment. Just 16 percent of people aged over 55 – or baby boomers – said they were worried about offending (Stock image)
And two-thirds of those surveyed are more comfortable complimenting strangers, feeling they are on safer ground.
The survey was carried out among 2,001 UK adults by malt loaf brand Soreen.
Liz Jacobs, the company’s marketing director, said: “Compliments cost nothing but provide a huge boost. They are simple, but sometimes difficult.
“Often people fear that the compliment they are about to give will be misinterpreted. But delivered with a smile, it will make someone’s day and make yours too.
