Charisma

None of this is expert advice. It's what people worked out for themselves, usually the hard way — what actually helped, and what they'd tell someone standing where you are. Take what fits and leave the rest.

How this was put together

If you only read a few

  1. Avoid comparing yourself to others.

    It helps greatly for this.

    4 people, independently

  2. Concentrate on boosting others' self-esteem rather than seeking their approval.

    Charismatic people make people feel interesting and good about themselves; building friendships is simpler by showing interest in others than by demanding their interest in you.

    5 people, independently

  3. Ask open-ended questions and allow others to do most of the talking.

    People often enjoy discussing themselves; it can make them feel seen, heard, and good about themselves.

    3 people, independently

  4. Use playfulness and humor to draw people in and lighten the mood.

    11 people, independently

  5. Read 'The Charisma Myth' by Olivia Fox Cabane to learn how to master personal magnetism and identify areas to work on.

    People will notice if your body language isn't congruent with your personality and be put off.

    3 people, independently

    • Read 'The Charisma Myth' by Olivia Fox Cabane and work through the exercises to observe shifts.5
  1. Take up active listening and inquire about other people's lives.

    One individual noticed that others were more attracted to them after adopting this approach.

    3 people, independently

  2. Practice social skills in safe environments, with trusted people, or even in a mirror before applying them socially.

    5 people, independently

    • Practice socializing consistently to hone skills and build confidence.9
  3. Read the room and match other people's energy by adapting your response accordingly.

    4 people, independently

  4. Smile with your whole face, including your eyes, to signal genuineness.

    6 people, independently

6 more on this
  1. Ask questions that people enjoy answering and give genuine compliments or positive feedback.

    3 people, independently

  2. Act politely by using phrases like 'please' and 'thank you'.

    3 people, independently

  3. Demonstrate real curiosity by listening closely and empathizing, while silencing your internal chatter.

    3 people, independently

  4. Cultivate confidence and self-comfort to appear relaxed in social situations.

    3 people, independently

  5. Learn basic storytelling techniques to make mundane situations engaging.

    3 people, independently

  6. Replace apologies for small mistakes with expressions of gratitude, such as saying 'thank you' instead of 'I'm sorry'.

    3 people, independently

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