I find it's rare for people to make personal comments at all, complementary or otherwise. I wonder sometimes whether people abstain from comments because they think it's too personal and hence rude.
In some circles, such as NVC and among many psychologists, praise and criticism are considered manipulative - compliments are flattery, the prelude to asking for or selling something, and criticisms are ways of trying to control others.
On the other hand, marriage counsellors and relationship experts say that praise is an essential means of fostering good relationships.
Beats me to know what's right.
I can make guesses about what others think of me from body language or behaviour - but I can never know for sure.
I would actually very much like to know what others think.
This post was edited by inky at September 23, 2018 4:11 PM MDT