I’ve always had struggles starting/maintaining conversations, so when I was in college, I would find something to compliment a stranger on (typically a cashier or someone I had to talk to) because I remembered how good I felt when I unexpectedly got a compliment from someone. When I myself became a cashier at a coffee shop, it was a really nice way to make someone feel good if they looked bored or upset. It also helps with awkward silences. I still do it when I can or when the situation calls for it, and it’s so nice to see people react and smile.