We all know them — those people who light up a room the moment they walk in. They have this magnetism that makes everyone feel better just by being around them. But what is it that makes them so special?
Surprisingly, it’s not all about charisma or extraversion. More often than not, it’s about some subtle habits they engage in, almost unconsciously, that give them their infectious positivity.
In this article, I’m going to share with you eight of these subtle habits that people who are a joy to be around usually have. And who knows, maybe you’ll find a few you might want to adopt yourself.
1) They listen more than they speak
We all love a good listener. There’s nothing more comforting than feeling truly heard and understood.
And that’s precisely what people who are a joy to be around do – they listen. They aren’t just waiting for their turn to speak; they’re genuinely interested in what you have to say.
This habit is more than just being polite. It’s about showing empathy and making the other person feel valued and important. And it’s something that comes naturally to them, almost like second nature.
Listening more than speaking also allows them to learn and understand others better, which in turn makes their interactions more meaningful and engaging.
So if you want to be more likeable, try listening more. You might be surprised at how much it changes your relationships and social interactions.
2) They spread positivity
One thing I’ve noticed about people who are a pleasure to be around is that they consistently radiate positivity.
I remember a friend of mine, Sam. No matter what life threw at him, he always managed to find a silver lining. He wasn’t oblivious to the negatives, but he chose not to dwell on them. Instead, he focused on the good in every situation and person.
One day, I asked him how he managed to stay so positive all the time. He just smiled and said, “Life is too short to focus on the negatives. Besides, positivity attracts positivity.”
That simple statement stuck with me and made me realize the power of a positive mindset. Since then, I’ve tried to incorporate that attitude into my own life. And honestly? It’s made a huge difference.
People like Sam are a joy to be around because they lift others up with their optimism and show us the brighter side of life. So if you want to be someone people love being around, try spreading a little more positivity.
3) They practice gratitude
People who are a joy to be around often have a habit of expressing their gratitude regularly. This isn’t just about saying “thank you” more often, but also about appreciating the good things in their lives, both big and small.
Interestingly, research has shown that practicing gratitude can actually improve one’s mental health. A study conducted by the University of California found that people who wrote down what they were grateful for each week were significantly more optimistic and felt better about their lives.
These individuals understand the power of gratitude and make it a point to acknowledge the good in their lives. This habit not only makes them happier but also has a positive impact on the people around them. After all, positivity is contagious, and a little gratitude can go a long way.
4) They respect boundaries
Another habit of people who are a joy to be around is their respect for personal boundaries. They understand that everyone has their own space and limits and they make sure to honor that.
Whether it’s not insisting on a topic that makes someone uncomfortable or understanding when someone needs some alone time, these individuals are extremely considerate of others’ boundaries.
This respect for personal boundaries makes people feel safe and comfortable around them. It shows that they value and respect others, which in turn draws people towards them.
So if you want to be someone who is loved by all, make sure to respect the boundaries of the people around you. It’s a subtle art, but one that can greatly enhance your relationships.
5) They are authentic
People who are a joy to be around have a quality that is both rare and precious – authenticity. They’re not afraid to show their true selves, warts and all. They don’t pretend to be someone they’re not just to fit in or be accepted.
This authenticity is incredibly endearing. It allows for deeper connections, as people feel they’re getting to know the real person, not just a facade.
It’s almost as if their authenticity gives others permission to be just as open and genuine. It creates an environment where everyone feels valued for who they truly are, not who they’re pretending to be.
In a world where we’re often encouraged to hide our flaws and put up a perfect front, the authenticity of these individuals is refreshing and deeply attractive. So remember, don’t be afraid to be yourself. Your authenticity might just make you someone others love to be around.
6) They are kind
Kindness is a habit that people who are a joy to be around often share. They treat others with respect and understanding, always willing to lend a helping hand or offer a kind word.
I remember a time when I was going through a particularly tough phase in my life. I felt alone, and each day was a struggle. That’s when I met Anna. Anna was someone who embodied kindness. She would always take the time to ask how I was, listen attentively, and offer words of comfort and encouragement.
Her kindness didn’t stop at just words. She would often go out of her way to help others, even if it meant putting her own needs aside. Even when she was busy, she never failed to make time for those who needed her.
Her kindness touched me deeply, and it made me realize the profound impact such a simple act can have on someone’s life. It made me strive to be kinder in my own interactions with others.
Kindness is a habit that not only makes you a joy to be around but also makes the world a better place. So let’s all strive to be a little kinder every day.
7) They maintain a positive outlook
Maintaining a positive outlook is another common habit among people who are a joy to be around. They don’t ignore the negatives, but they choose not to let them overshadow the positives.
They believe in the power of a positive mindset and its ability to influence their experiences and interactions. They tend to see the glass half full, even when things don’t go as planned.
This isn’t about blind optimism, but rather about having a balanced view of life. They understand that life comes with its share of ups and downs, but they choose to focus on the ups and learn from the downs.
Their positive outlook not only makes them happier individuals but also spreads positivity to those around them. It’s no wonder that being around them can lift your spirits and make your day a little brighter.
8) They are present
Perhaps the most important habit shared by people who are a joy to be around is their ability to be fully present. They live in the moment, not in the past or future.
When you’re talking to them, they’re not just physically there but mentally and emotionally invested as well. They give you their undivided attention, making you feel heard and appreciated.
Their presence is not just about being physically there, but about truly engaging with the world and people around them. It shows others that they value their time and company, which is one of the greatest gifts one can give.
The beauty of subtlety
Reflecting on these habits, it becomes clear that the allure of people who are a joy to be around lies in the subtlety of their actions. Their charm isn’t about grand gestures or flamboyant displays. It’s about the little things they do, often unconsciously – listening attentively, expressing gratitude, respecting boundaries, being authentic and kind, maintaining a positive outlook, and being present.
Interestingly, Harvard’s longest study on happiness found that one of the key factors to leading a happy life is having solid relationships. And these habits are the cornerstones that foster such relationships.
Every interaction we have with others presents an opportunity to touch their lives in a positive way. By adopting these subtle habits, we not only become individuals others love to be around but also contribute to creating a more positive and compassionate world.
So as you go about your day, remember to listen more than you speak, spread positivity, practice gratitude, respect boundaries, be authentic, maintain a positive outlook, and be present. The impact might be more profound than you realize.
