Jelena Dincic
Whether we want to admit it, we all want to be liked. It’s human nature to want to be accepted and respected by others.
But how can you tell if people like you? What makes a person likable?
In this article, we’re gonna look at 11 personality traits of a likable person that will prove to you that you’re likable too.
Let’s get started:
1) You’re positive
One of the first things that come to mind when I think about likable people is their positive nature.
They’re optimists who look at the glass as being half full, not half empty.
They’re easy to be around.
And do you know what else?
Positive people don’t like to complain, instead, if they have a problem, they’re proactive in looking for a solution.
If that sounds like you, then that’s the first sign that you’re a likable person.
2) Your laughter is infectious
Do you like to laugh? Is your laughter infectious?
Here’s the thing about laughter: It makes people feel good.
Why?
Because laughter releases endorphins, also known as the “feel-good hormones”.
“Because social laughter leads to similar chemical response in the brain, this allows significant expansion of human social networks: laughter is highly contagious, and the endorphin response may thus easily spread through large groups that laugh together.”
Simply put, your laughter spreads happiness and positive vibes. People are comfortable in your presence and they see you as someone friendly and approachable.
So, yes, you’re likable!
3) You have a good sense of humor
Not only do you like to laugh, but you like to make people laugh.
You don’t take yourself seriously, in fact, you’re often the butt of your own jokes.
And guess what? That’s something people really love about you.
I mean, there are so many positive sides to a good sense of humor:
- For starters, it’s a great ice-breaker at parties
- It’s a great way to show off how witty you are
- It makes people want to be in your company
- It can be useful in getting through difficult situations (yes, you can even make people laugh at a funeral!)
4) You remember people
Don’t you just hate it when you have to introduce yourself to the same person for what seems like the hundredth time?
Ok, I get it, some people have bad memories, but I think others are just arrogant or uncaring.
But that’s not you.
You remember everyone you meet. In fact, people are pleasantly surprised not only that you remember having met them, but that you also remember their names and what they do.
It feels good when someone notices you and remembers who you are, even after a brief introduction.
Look at it this way, you make people feel special, so naturally, they like you.
5) You always ask how someone is doing
You’d think it was common courtesy to ask people who they are and take an interest in their lives, but it’s something that’s becoming rarer by the day.
I don’t know what it is, maybe it’s the times we’re living in, with all the social media and whatnot, but people seem to be stuck in their little bubbles, they don’t remember how to engage with other people anymore, they forget to care.
And then, there are those people who are so self-centered that they can’t stop talking about themselves for one minute to inquire about the other person.
That’s what makes you so likable – you take a genuine interest in the people around you.
It’s true, you’re not just interested in how your friends and family are doing.
- When you run into your elderly neighbor in the corridor, you’ll take the time to talk to them and see how they’re doing
- You’ll remember to ask your co-worker how her mother’s surgery went
- And when you go to buy meat, you’ll ask your butcher how his kids are doing in school
What’s not to like about you? You’re a people person.
6) You don’t judge people
Hey, everyone’s different and no one is perfect, so who are we to judge?
You’re open-minded and you try to understand and embrace the differences between people instead of judging them.
No wonder people feel safe in your presence, like they can be themselves without fear of criticism or ridicule.
7) You don’t like to gossip
I totally get where you’re coming from.
Gossip makes me really uncomfortable. Not only do I refuse to take part, but I’ll try to change the subject or even leave the room if it persists.
So, if you’re someone who refuses to spread rumors because you know how hurtful and damaging they can be, it shows that you are mature, respectful of others, and trustworthy.
All very likable personality traits.
8) You’re real
People like you because you don’t pretend to be someone you’re not. You’re confident and comfortable in your own skin and that’s a very attractive quality.
Personally, I have a hard time being around fake people, with their fake smiles and fake personalities. I’d rather they be honest and dull than pretend to be something they’re not.
Don’t you agree?
9) You’re a good listener
You make people feel like they can tell you anything.
I guess it’s partly because you’re non-judgmental, but also because you actively listen to what people have to say. You have no idea how many people just nod their heads, pretending to listen.
But not you. You take a real interest in what is being said and you always respond appropriately – with questions, remarks, or comforting words.
People like to have someone they can really open up to.
10) You’re fun
One thing’s for sure, nobody ever accused you of being boring!
You’re full of positive energy and are sure to brighten up anyone’s day.
Apart from your good-natured personality and your love for telling jokes, you’re also open to trying new things and going on adventures.
- Anyone wanna try bungee jumping? You do!
- Diving with sharks? You do!
- Karaoke? Where do you sign up?
Your philosophy is that life is too short to miss out on having a good time.
You like to laugh, go with the flow, and enjoy life, and that makes you likable in anyone’s books.
11) You’re thoughtful
This means that you always take the time to think about other people’s feelings and to consider how your words or actions may affect them.
But there’s more:
- You’re kind and generous.
- You’re compassionate.
- You go out of your way to help those in need.
- You love to surprise your friends and family with gifts.
Do you know what?
If someone doesn’t think you’re likable, it’s because they’re jealous of your good and kind nature, so don’t worry about them.
