In a world of fakeness and plasticity, truly likable people are hard to come by. 

This is because genuine likability requires a powerful element of authenticity. 

And let’s face it, not everyone is always willing to be their authentic selves. 

People are constantly trying to put up a front. People want to fit in, they crave clout and likes on the gram. 

These days, locating people who are consistently true to themselves is almost like looking for a needle in a haystack. 

But they do exist. And perhaps you’re one of them. 

In this article, I’ll take you through some of the unusual characteristics of very likable people. 

If these items resonate with you, you’re probably in a good place. 

Let’s get to it! 

1) You have quirky and weird hobbies 

Most people’s interests are dictated by trends, from social media, films, or otherwise. 

They’ll blindly become interested in a certain hobby because everybody else is into it… not because it genuinely speaks to them deep down. 

Likable people tend to be their own people; they tend to be characters. 

To an extent, your hobbies define you, so if you have some pretty niche and quirky hobbies, then you’re likely a pretty niche and quirky person. 

Playing video games, shopping, and fantasy football are all quite typical. 

But things like mushroom hunting, birdwatching, cave diving, composing music, and so on are incredibly unusual. 

As we grow up as people, we tend to appreciate the uniqueness of others. 

So if you have a few unusual hobbies, this is ultimately a testament to your likability.

Keep being you. 

2) You have a self-deprecating sense of humor 

Generally speaking, people can be quite uptight. 

You’d be surprised how few can take a step back, see the absurdity of their respective situations, and laugh at themselves. 

I’ll go out on a limb here and suggest that likability and a sense of humor are deeply intertwined.

It’s simple: the more humorous you are, the more people you’ll charm. 

Self-deprecating humor takes this theory to the next level. 

After all, self-deprecation or making fun of oneself requires a degree of humility that most don’t readily possess. 

For instance, I consider comedian Conan O’Brien to be one of the most likable people in the history of talk shows, and he is a master of self-deprecation. 

Letting your guard down and not taking yourself too seriously makes you relatable, non-threatening, and approachable to many people. 

When you’re playful and funny, people will generally enjoy your company; they’ll feel relaxed and at ease. 

3) You’re an emotionally intelligent person  

Likable people aren’t just court jesters, they also tend to have a great deal of substance to them. 

The more emotionally intelligent you are, the more people feel connected to you on a heightened and intimate level. 

They feel closer to you. 

Emotional intelligence will naturally make you stand out amongst all the other humans of the world. 

So if you have the uncanny ability to read the room, and understand people’s moods and emotions, acting accordingly, you’re in great shape. 

People will naturally appreciate you and the unique sensitivity you bring to the table. 

4) You can be an unpredictably kind person 

It’s cliche but true: you can never judge a book by its cover.

I know people who seem standoffish, intimidating, and perpetually grumpy yet are far kinder than the majority of humanity. 

And in a world of hollow pleasantries, their rough exteriors somehow make them even more endearing and real. 

My grandmother, for instance, always seems a bit angry and high-strung, but once you get to know her, you’ll get to know one of the most empathetic and compassionate people in the world. 

Throughout my life, she has been kind and generous when I least expect it. 

During the times I’ve struggled financially throughout my adult life, like during the pandemic, for instance, she’s been there for me without me even asking. 

She’s offered her unsolicited moral and financial support. 

Without her unexpected help, I’d be far worse off in life. 

It’s not rocket science: true kindness and likability often go hand-in-hand.   

5) You’re able to offer unconventional wisdom

Going through struggles in life is pretty universal. 

We all could use someone to turn to during those times of crisis; someone reliable who can emotionally and mentally support us through the day. 

Unfortunately, most people will offer low-effort, cliche advice when you seek their counsel. 

Things like “everything will be okay,” or “you’ll get through this,” are appreciated but ultimately, they’re not communicating anything particularly insightful. 

We tend to appreciate people who are paying close enough attention that they give perspectives that are out of the ordinary–which makes dialogue with them enlightening, refreshing, and even enjoyable. 

6) You give sincere compliments 

When you start paying attention to the little things, people will naturally find you more likable. 

This is especially true when giving compliments. 

Lots of folks will offer disingenuous, generic, blanket compliments like “You’ve lost weight” or “You’re a really talented person.” 

This type of praise is generally shallow, like templates that can be used and interchanged for anyone. 

Likable people tend to make it a point to genuinely observe others, to observe subtle, understated details, before blurting things out. 

This approach allows them to give praise that is highly specific and more heartfelt, making the person on the receiving end feel truly seen and appreciated. 

7) You have an air of mystery about you  

The less we know and have access to someone, the more we are intrigued by their presence.

People who are always around and available, who always show up to events and parties without fail, who constantly post their whereabouts and accomplishments on social media, are, well, predictable. 

They may not be bad people, but they aren’t particularly compelling either. 

So if you tend to maintain a certain level of mystery about yourself, limiting your availability, you’ll naturally pique others’ curiosity about you, making them want to know you better, on a more intimate level. 

Have other many things going for you; diversify your interests; show restraint on social media. 

If you’re dedicated to putting the time and effort in, you’ll be far more likable in no time. 

Keep going.