Complimenting strangers. A social experiment.

Last year, I went through a 'mountain-man' phase, where I didn't shave for the better part of a year. At the time, it seemed exciting, since I always maintained a clean-cut look.

As the beard started to grow in, I was on the receiving end of a variety of questions and compliments. Here in the Philippines, facial hair is a rarity, so seeing a full beard is equivalent to finding a Mewtwo.

Going out in public was always interesting. For the most part, the locals just stared, curiously. I imagine they thought I was insane... I looked ridiculous, and the weather isn't exactly comforting; (90 degrees and 90+% humidity on most days).

However, at around the four month mark, when I was finally able to maintain it- I started receiving a lot of questions about where I was from, and for how long I have been growing my beard. Following these questions, came the compliments.

"It looks very nice, Sir".

"Your beard is cool, Sir".

"Awesome beard, Sir"

Now... Filipinos are, without a doubt... The NICEST and most polite people I have ever met. Hence always calling me Sir, when I am just 35 years old.

Receiving these compliments, really made me feel good. It actually made me want to go out more, and converse with strangers. Otherwise, I have social anxieties, and strayed from situations that would require me to interact.

In return, I gained more confidence in myself... And realized that I was receiving compliments, but never dished them out. How selfish of me! Sorry to say, giving praise to a stranger seemed a daunting, and impossible task.

How would people react? Will they think I am crazy? Is it impolite to openly tell a woman that she has a nice hairstyle?

Many women, spend hours getting ready to leave their homes. Even if they are just going to the grocery store to grab a loaf of bread. The makeup undoubtedly gives them confidence, but- I also believe that they want everybody to notice them. If they want people to notice them, they would welcome the compliments.

When I first started passing admiration, I was thinking too much. I would look for people that seemed likely to take a compliment well, and then find something about them I could give-praise-to. For sure, it took getting used to. Talking to a stranger isn't so common nowadays.

As I started taking notice of the people around me, I realized that before this experiment, life was passing me by. By spending more time seeking out folks to chat with, my head was on a swivel. New sights, smells and sounds were bountiful.

Now, when I go out, all the people I have complimented, and chatted with... Are noticeably happy to see me. Instead of a fake smile as I pass, I am now asked about my recent trip to USA. About my bitcoin. About my missing beard. (Yeah, I couldn't deal with it any longer). In return, I also ask in earnest, about events in their lives.

When I walk away after giving a compliment; I feel great. I am sure, the other person feels the same. Will they return the praise, to a different stranger? I believe so. I even imagine, that they will think about this throughout their day. When they get to wherever they were going, they'll arrive in a more positive mood; This causes everyone around them to catch the good vibes.

So the next time you leave your house, take the time to notice a fellow human. Make a concerted effort to pass a sincere compliment.

-I can promise you that it wont cost you anything, like an upvote on this post :)

_Rob