Clifton Kopp
It’s not always about what you say, but how you behave.
The difference between a pleasant person and an unpleasant one often comes down to their behavior.
People who are enjoyable to be around typically exhibit 10 certain behaviors that make them stand out.
These traits aren’t about being overly nice or constantly happy. Instead, they’re about being authentic, respectful and considerate.
1) They’re good listeners
Listening is an art form that not everyone has mastered. But those who are pleasant to be around, they’ve got it down to a tee.
Good listeners don’t just hear your words, they understand them. They pick up on the nuances, empathize with your feelings, and respond appropriately.
They don’t interrupt, they don’t judge, and they make you feel valued.
When you’re speaking with someone who genuinely listens, it’s a breath of fresh air. It makes you feel seen and heard, which is a powerful experience.
2) They’re always positive
Now, this doesn’t mean they’re always happy-go-lucky with a smile plastered on their face. But they do have a way of finding the silver lining in every situation.
I remember a friend of mine who was like this.
Even during the most challenging times, she would find something positive to focus on.
When she lost her job, she viewed it as an opportunity to explore new career paths. When her car broke down, she saw it as a chance to enjoy the simplicity of walking or biking to places.
Her positive outlook was infectious.
It made me realize that our perspective greatly influences our experience of life. Being around her often lifted my spirits, and it taught me a lot about resilience and optimism.
3) They’re genuinely kind
Kindness is a trait that comes naturally to pleasant people.
It’s not about grand gestures or public displays, but the small, everyday acts of thoughtfulness.
Research suggests that performing acts of kindness releases oxytocin, a hormone that helps create a feeling of warmth, generosity, and trustworthiness.
It’s no wonder then that kind of people are so pleasant to be around!
They’re the ones who remember your coffee order, help you carry your heavy bags, or simply give you a comforting shoulder when you’re down.
Their kindness doesn’t discriminate; it extends to everyone they interact with.
To be around someone who is genuinely kind is to feel appreciated and valued.
And that’s a pretty great feeling.
4) They respect boundaries
Respect is fundamental in all our relationships, whether they’re personal or professional. And a big part of respect is recognizing and honoring other people’s boundaries.
Pleasant people are very good at this. They understand that everyone has their comfort zones and personal space, both physically and emotionally.
They won’t push you to share more than you’re comfortable with or invade your personal space.
You know they’ll never make you feel pressured or uncomfortable because they always respect your boundaries.
5) They’re authentic
There’s something incredibly appealing about people who are real, who don’t pretend to be someone they’re not.
This authenticity is a common trait among those who are pleasant to be around.
They’re honest about their thoughts and feelings, and they don’t feel the need to put up a facade or play games.
Being around someone authentic allows you to let your guard down and be yourself too.
There’s a certain freedom that comes with such interactions, making them very enriching and enjoyable.
6) They’re empathetic
Empathy is the ability to understand and share the feelings of others.
It’s a trait that transforms interactions and makes people truly pleasant to be around.
Empathetic individuals don’t just offer sympathy; they connect with your emotions on a deeper level. They understand your pain, share in your joy, and provide comfort during your struggles.
Being around someone who genuinely cares about your feelings and experiences is like a warm hug to the soul.
It’s a gesture of understanding that can make all the difference in one’s day – or even one’s life.
7) They’re patient
We live in a fast-paced world where patience often seems like a forgotten virtue. But it’s a trait that can make people incredibly pleasant to be around.
I’ve always admired my grandfather for his remarkable patience. He could calmly deal with difficulties or delay without getting angry or frustrated.
Whether he was teaching me how to fish, waiting for the right moment to capture a photograph, or simply listening to my endless childhood stories, his patience was unwavering.
That calm and unhurried demeanor made him so easy to be around.
It was comforting and reassuring, and it taught me the invaluable lesson that not everything needs to be rushed.
Patience is indeed a virtue – one that makes people truly pleasant to be around.
8) They’re humble
Humility is a trait that’s often overlooked, but it’s a quality that makes people incredibly pleasant to be around.
Humble people don’t boast about their achievements or seek constant attention.
Instead, they’re quietly confident, acknowledging their successes without letting them define their worth.
They’re also open to learning and willing to admit when they’re wrong. They don’t let their ego get in the way of growth and understanding.
Being around someone who embodies humility is refreshing in a world where self-promotion is often the norm. Their modesty and down-to-earth nature make them easy to connect with and enjoyable to be around.
9) They’re consistent
Consistency is perhaps the most important trait of all when it comes to being pleasant to be around.
Consistent people are reliable. You know what to expect from them. They’re not warm and friendly one day, then cold and distant the next.
Their words match their actions, and their behavior is the same, whether they’re dealing with a CEO or a janitor.
You can trust them because they’re genuine, and their actions reflect their character.
Consistency in behavior is a sign of respect towards others and speaks volumes about a person’s integrity.
10) They make you laugh
A good sense of humor is a magnetic quality that makes people exceptionally pleasant to be around.
Those who can find joy in the lighter side of life and share a hearty laugh have a special way of creating a positive and enjoyable atmosphere.
A well-timed joke or a playful outlook can lighten the mood, diffuse tension, and foster a sense of camaraderie.
People with a good sense of humor often bring a unique perspective to challenges, helping others see situations in a more lighthearted way.
Whether it’s through witty banter, clever observations, or a simple knack for finding joy in everyday moments, those who can make others laugh contribute to a more enjoyable social environment.
Laughter is, after all, a universal language that brings people together and enhances the overall quality of interactions.
Final thoughts: It’s all about connection
At the core of these behaviors is one fundamental principle: connection.
These actions aren’t just about being good or nice; they’re about understanding and valuing the person in front of you.
They’re about making them feel seen, heard, and appreciated.
Research consistently shows that our relationships and connections with others are central to our happiness and well-being.
We’re social creatures, after all.
I am happy for you to find some of these traits within yourself, know that you too are making this world a better place, one interaction at a time.
