We’ve all met that person, the one who is liked and respected everywhere that they go, from the very moment that they walk in the room. They make it look effortless as if it’s a natural gift they were born with and not something that we can attain with a little hard world and dedication.
The truth is that anyone can be likable if you’re willing to put the time and energy into your personal growth and development. The difference doesn’t rely as much on influencing how others perceive you, it’s who you are and how you portray yourself to the world around you. Interested in learning more?
Here are 12 traits and habits associated with highly likable people:
#1 – They practice compassion daily.
The world around us is struggling, with everyone facing their own personal battles. Highly likable people see past their own struggles and difficulties to empathize with the world around them. They take the time to consider life from someone else’s perspective, which doesn’t go unnoticed. After all, everyone wants to be understood.
#2 – They take the time to truly listen when others speak.
The concept of ‘listening’ is often misunderstood. While others around you may claim to be listening, it’s often only for a break in your conversation so that they can take their turn or listen for something that they can build upon, making themselves relevant to the conversation. Likable people, however, attentively listen not only to your words but to the meaning behind them. They care what you have to say.
#3 – They always have a smile on their face.
Regardless of how difficult life may see, or what mood they may currently be dealing with, these individuals always walk out into the world with a smile on their face. They understand that this one simple decision can bring happiness and light to the world around them.
#4 – They are completely real and genuine.
Highly likable people don’t waste their time trying to wear masks or pretend to be someone they’re not. Instead, they allow the world to see their real self. They are confident in who they are, standing tall. They aren’t interested in simply impressing others, as they recognize that won’t bring them happiness in life.
#5 – They make a point of living by the golden rule, but with a twist.
It’s a concept that we were taught back in childhood, however, there is one major flaw to the concept of the golden rule – treat everyone as you would like to be treated – and it’s simply this: not everyone wants to be treated the same way. How you want to be treated may not be how your neighbor wants to be treated, and that’s okay. Highly likable people treat others how they want to be treated.
#6 – They understand the value of hard work.
When you are considering the traits that make someone likable, this is one that is often overlooked but humor me for a second. When given the option to spend time either with someone who has no work ethic, believing the world should simply give them all that they need, or someone with goals and dreams, and a direction in life, who would you choose?
#7 – They truly enjoy life.
Life is like a roller coaster, full of incredible highs and heartbreaking lows. However, highly likable people look at their life as a whole, and they can honestly say that they enjoy and love it. They feel blessed to have this opportunity and are eager to take chances whenever possible. They recognize that life is about the journey, not the destination.
#8 – They don’t pass judgment on those around them.
Going back to the need to be understanding, highly likable people are incredibly open-minded. They understand that they can accept the thoughts, beliefs and lifestyle choices of others without judgment and that this doesn’t require that they always agree. They don’t have to take these choices as their own. If someone’s lifestyle choices aren’t hurting anyone else, they recognize that their opinion really doesn’t matter.
#9 – They live with integrity.
Highly likable people have a strong sense of morals and beliefs, and they allow these beliefs to guide their daily lives. Regardless of how hard it may be, these individuals continue to stay true to these morals throughout the duration of their life.
#10 – They put away their phones and electronics.
We live in a highly electronically driven world; however, many experts say that these screens may actually be driving a wedge between us and the world that we live in. This isn’t to say that these individuals don’t possess these items, but they recognize the importance of moderation.
#11 – They recognize the importance of connection and relationships.
While there is no denying the fact that there are people around us, and life involves interaction and communication, highly likable people are able to see how this is truly important to their happiness and well-being. They recognize that relationships help us to grow, evolve, and find happiness in this life. This drives them to connect with others at every chance possible.
#12 – They understand the value of good manners.
Believe it or not, good manners aren’t merely a conversation had with children to encourage them to behave. Those that continue to exercise good manners as adults will quickly see that this is an easy way to make the people around you feel good. Simple words like ‘please’ and ‘thank you’ can go a long way.