Do you remember the fun you had as a child?
The playdates you would have with your buddies? The adventures you would go on? The memories you created?
You thought they would never end. But they did…
As you grew older, lots of changes happened.
You change schools. You start a family. You change jobs. You move away.
Each event can change the relationships you have. Especially your friendships.
Creating new relationships can be a struggle. Introducing yourself to new people can be scary.
But it all comes down to your likeability. People want to be around those that they like.
People like people who like them.
— Kare Anderson
Today, let’s look at 5 simple ways to become more likeable.
- Smile: A smiling face is much more likeable than having a frown on your face.
First, your smile will lift your mood. It puts a little pep in your step. Try it if you don’t believe me. Let me know what happens.Secondly, it raises the mood of those you meet. People react better to smiling faces. It lets them know you’re more approachable. Your smile is contagious.Think about people you like most. Do they normally walk around with a smile or a frown? Now, did you say a smile? I bet you did! - Accentuate the positive: Don’t be a Debbie Downer. You know the one, something is always wrong or they’re always talking negative about someone.
This turns people off! If you’re someone who is negative, stop it right now.Instead, start accentuating the positive. If you notice a co-worker doing a great job, say it. Let others know when they’ve done work that is awesome.Praise and lift them up. - Listen: I have friends that hog the whole conversation. Every conversation is filled with their exploits. You cannot get a word in. I’m sure you know someone like this too.
Don’t be like these friends.Instead of trying to hog the conversation, you need to listen to those around you. Let them open up and share with you.You will find new ways to serve them. You will find common interests that you did not know you shared. You will help by being a shoulder of comfort.You will learn so much by taking the time to listen. Give it a shot today. - Assume the best: Many people assume the world is out to get them. If they let their guard down they will be taken advantage of.
This is a mindset that I’ve struggled with and have started to overcome. To be honest, changing this mindset has been one of the most freeing and liberating things I have done.Instead of looking at the world as Me Against Them it has now become How Can I Help Others?With this attitude, it draws people to you. Assuming the best allows you to be open to others.True connections are made only when you are able to assume the best about another person. - Have fun: Most of all, have fun!
People like to be around others who know how to have fun.If you’re having fun, you will give off an aura of likeability. Your body language will give those around you the okay to like you.Participate in the activities that bring you joy. Find a group that gets together regularly to participate in that activity.It may be an physical activity. Disc golf, mountain climbing, or geocaching are all great activities to do in a group.
- Or it could be something less physical. Knitting, board games, or a book club work well too.You’ll create new friends and memories with those that you meet in the new group.
These 5 simple ways to become more likeable can rock your world.
People will be more energized around you. They’ll be interested in the things going on in your life. And you can gain friendships like you had when you were growing up.
“Basically, likeability comes down to creating positive emotional experiences in others. When you make others feel good, they tend to gravitate to you.”
— Tim Sanders
Question: What other simple ways do know of to become more likeable? Please share your ideas in the comment section below.
