Is it okay to compliment guys or will it seem like I’m flirting with them?

I’m a girl and am in high school. I’m not really wanting to start dating yet and I don’t wanna give guys the impression that I have a crush on them or want to date when I’m not exactly looking for a relationship yet unless it just happens because I meet someone that I really like a lot or something. Do you think it’s okay to compliment guys just in a friendly way like when I’m at school or the gym for example or do compliments come across as flirting even if a girl isn’t trying to be flirtatious? Like in your mind if a girl complimented you would you think she’s flirting or has a crush on you? I’m just talking about being kind and making someone feel good about themselves