Likable [lik·able | \ ˈlī-kə-bəl \] – having qualities that bring about a favorable regard
Let’s be clear. Being likable does not mean being friends with everyone or having a people-pleasing personality.
Being likable implies having valuable personal qualities that are genuinely admired by others. It means having an empathetic, kindhearted, compassionate soul, which other people deeply appreciate.
Those who are self-absorbed, manipulative, and controlling may have temporary success in their personal and professional life, but it is the amiable ones who know how to keep the balance between the two.
Do you consider yourself a likable person? Do you wish to improve your qualities in order to become one?
Here are 5 behaviors you need to practice to become a more likable person.
1. Being respectful.
If you want to be more approachable, you first need to have your moral values reevaluated. That includes your way of showing respect for others. Simple things like not interrupting someone when they speak, offering your seat to an elderly person in the public transport, or holding the door for someone carrying heavy shopping bags are enough to leave a good impression in the eyes of others. But most importantly, practicing this behavior will make you more respectful of the ones around you.
2. Be a good listener.
People who are constantly bragging about their successes or complaining about their misfortunes hardly ever win the admiration of others. On the other hand, those who know how to listen are always sincerely appreciated. If you learn how to be a good listener, others will consider you as a trustworthy person, whom they can vent to in difficult times.
3. Avoid name dropping.
You may have decent connections with famous people in your area, but bragging about them is not going to make you any ‘cooler’. Mentioning it once is enough – you don’t have to bring it up in every conversation you’re involved in. Even if you are a close friend of the hottest Hollywood star, using that friendship to make yourself seem more appealing will most probably do the opposite.
4. Be kind.
Having a genuine, empathetic nature will do wonders for you. When you have the heart to put yourself in the shoes of others, they will see you as someone they can rely on. Kindness is a valuable quality that we rarely see these days, which makes the people who own it incredibly treasured. So if you practice it more often, the ones around you will notice your effort and will automatically consider you a more likable person.
5. Smile more.
People who smile often tend to make others feel better, even if they are in the worst mood possible. One smile can do miracles, so do it as much as you can. And if life throws a difficult challenge at you, smile at that one too because you are strong enough to handle it. Of course, you cannot be happy all the time, but if you try to look on the bright side of things, the ones you care for will follow.
