Rachel Sussman, a psychotherapist and relationship expert in New York City, told INSIDER that compliments help people feel seen and acknowledged a universal human need.
"People just want to be recognized and appreciated for the good that they do," she said. "It makes them feel really good about that person who complimented and about themselves."
A good compliment doesn't have to be related to one's appearance, Sussman says. Commending someone for a character trait, an achievement, or the effort that they put into doing something such as preparing a meal can go a long way. The most important thing is for it to be sincere.
"If you're one of those people that can't take compliments or say 'I don't need compliments,' you should really take a look inward and try to figure out why that is," she said. It could indicate deeper issues related to low confidence or self esteem .