Ever find yourself cheering for the team everyone else counts out?

Or feeling an instant connection with the character in a story who’s struggling against the odds? Rooting for the underdog is more than a simple preference—it’s often a reflection of a deeply empathetic and compassionate personality.

If you’re someone who gravitates toward the less favored, the underestimated, and the ones fighting uphill battles, you’re not alone.

According to psychologists, those who champion the underdog share certain traits that reveal a lot about their values and outlook on life.

In this article, we’ll dive into nine unique behaviors that tend to show up in people like you—the ones who always stand up for those who need it most.

1) They demonstrate empathy

Empathy is not always as straightforward as feeling sorry for someone. It often involves a deeper connection and understanding of the person’s situation or struggle.

People who root for the underdog often have high levels of empathy.

You may notice that they are able to put themselves in the underdog’s shoes and perceive their struggles from a first-person perspective.

They can feel and understand the challenges faced by the underdog, whether it’s:

• A small startup competing against established businesses
• A team at the bottom of the league
• A character in a story facing insurmountable odds

Their support for the underdog isn’t merely about cheering on the weaker party, but rather, it’s about identifying with their struggles and genuinely wanting them to overcome their obstacles and succeed.

2) They value fairness

A strong sense of fairness is another trait you’ll often find in those who root for the underdogs.

These individuals have a fundamental belief in equality and justice. They are not swayed by power or popularity; instead, they judge situations and people based on their merits.

If they see someone being treated unfairly or being put at a disadvantage due to circumstances beyond their control, they are likely to step in and offer their support. This could be in the form of:

• Standing up against a bully
• Advocating for equal opportunities
• Expressing support for those who are overlooked or underestimated

They believe that everyone deserves a fair shot and are willing to go out of their way to level the playing field. 

3) They enjoy unpredictability

While many of us crave stability and predictability, underdog supporters often thrive on uncertainty.

They find a certain thrill in not knowing what’s going to happen next, and they relish the chance of witnessing a surprise victory.

This doesn’t mean they are reckless or irresponsible. Instead, it’s about finding joy in the unexpected and deriving satisfaction from seeing the tables turn.

This could be as simple as cheering for the team that’s trailing in a sports game, or supporting an unconventional idea in a brainstorming session.

4) They know what it’s like to be the underdog

Raw and unfiltered, people who root for the underdog often do so because they know what it feels like to be one.

They’ve been there, faced the hard times, and understand the pain and struggle that comes with being overlooked, underestimated, or disregarded.

They might have:

• Been the last picked in school sports
• Struggled with learning difficulties
• Faced prejudice due to their background
• Felt like an outsider at some point in their lives

They remember how it felt when someone believed in them despite the odds.

That’s why they have a soft spot for the underdog – because they know that everyone deserves a chance to shine, no matter their past or present circumstances.

5) They genuinely believe in potential

People who root for the underdog have an inherent belief in the power of potential.

They see beyond the present circumstances and can envision what someone or something can become, even if it’s not immediately apparent.

They don’t just see a struggling athlete, a failing business, or a troubled individual; they see a future champion, a successful enterprise, or a person who can turn their life around.

Their kind and empathetic nature allows them to see the best in people and situations, even when others can’t.

Their support isn’t just about cheering from the sidelines; it’s about encouraging growth and transformation. 

6) They celebrate small victories

In a world that often focuses on grand achievements and monumental successes, underdog supporters find joy in the small victories.

They understand that progress, no matter how minor it may seem, is still progress and deserves to be celebrated.

Perhaps it’s the first sale a new business makes, the first goal a struggling sports team scores, or a personal milestone reached by someone going through a tough time.

These seemingly small victories are big deals for them.

They remind us that success isn’t always about the finish line but about the journey and the little wins along the way.

7) They have a sense of humor

Underdog supporters often come with an excellent sense of humor. They can find the funny side of things even in challenging or disappointing situations.

This light-hearted approach helps them, and those around them, to keep going even when things seem tough.

They might make a joke to lighten the mood during a tense moment, or laugh off a failure while encouraging the underdog to try again.

Their ability to laugh in the face of adversity is not about dismissing the struggle, but about bringing some positivity and resilience into the mix.

8) They aren’t afraid to be brutally honest

Underdog supporters, while empathetic and kind, are also not afraid to tell it like it is.

They believe in tough love and understand that sugarcoating the truth or avoiding difficult conversations doesn’t help anyone in the long run.

If they see the underdog making a mistake or heading down the wrong path, they won’t shy away from pointing it out. But they do this not to criticize or belittle, but to help the underdog learn, grow, and ultimately become stronger.

9) They never stop believing

The most crucial trait of those who root for the underdog is their unwavering belief. No matter how bleak the situation might seem, they never stop believing in the underdog’s ability to triumph.

Their faith is not just blind optimism. It’s a deep-rooted belief that stems from their understanding of human potential and resilience.

They have seen how determination, hard work, and a never-give-up attitude can turn the tables, even in the face of overwhelming odds.

This belief is not only a source of strength for the underdogs they support but also an inspiring reminder for all of us.

It teaches us that with belief in oneself and persistence, we can overcome any challenge and achieve our goals, no matter how far-fetched they may seem.

Reflections and final thoughts

Rooting for the underdog isn’t just a personality quirk—it’s a reflection of a heart that values fairness, empathy, and resilience.

Each of these nine behaviors shows how much you believe in giving people a fighting chance and supporting those who might otherwise be overlooked. By standing with the underdog, you’re adding a bit more kindness and courage to the world.

So, keep being the one who cheers for those with the odds stacked against them.

It’s people like you who remind us all of the power of hope and compassion, and that everyone deserves someone in their corner.

After all, your support might just be what helps an underdog rise up and claim their victory.