Last week I wrote about how men find it difficult paying compliments because it is some- thing that does not come naturally to them.

After years of marriage, where compliments were few and far between, especially at the bitter end, you may have forgotten how to deliver one.

In such circumstances offering up a compliment can seem a little uncomfortable and insincere.

Don't worry. It's not that difficult because women share with men a desire to have their confidence boosted.

Remembering that you should always criticise in private and praise in public, make sure other people are within earshot when you pay that new woman a compliment.

However announcing in a packed restaurant that your date/partner has "a healthy appetite" is not the kind of compliment a woman wants to share with all and sundry.

Secondly, don't throw yourself into complimenting at every opportunity, as compliments are best when used sparingly.

You should also make doubly sure that you are actually paying the right kind of compliment.

Some men have problems with distinguishing between good compliments and bad ones.

The following are not good compliments:

• "You are a truly wonderful cleaner."


• "But I like small breasts."


• "But I like bingo wings."


• "You remind me of my mum."


• "You remind me of my ex."

The general rule of thumb for compliments is that they should focus on one or any combination of the following:

• Hair


• Eyes


• Nails


• Intelligence


• Her parking


• Small bottom


• Dress


• Shoes

A combination of any of the above is bound to be a sure-fire hit.

For example: "Those new shoes go so well with your excellent nails, haircut and small bottom."

On second thoughts, it's probably best to leave out the reference to the "small bottom" as Jennifer Lopez has gone and confused the issue somewhat and you should only remark upon her posterior if she has referred to it as resembling the size of a small country.