Growing older comes with its fair share of perks, and one of them, surprisingly, can be an increased likeability factor.

It’s not magic or a fluke. It’s about subtle behavioral changes that they adopt over time.

These eight behaviors aren’t exclusive to a particular age group. But as people grow older, they often become wiser, more patient, and more understanding. This maturity can manifest itself in a number of ways that make them more likable.

Stick around if you want to know what they are, and perhaps, how you can adopt them too.

1) They listen more

To truly listen means to pay full attention to what someone else is saying, rather than just waiting for your turn to talk. It’s a subtle art, but it’s one that can have a profound impact on how you’re perceived by others.

People generally like to be heard and understood. When you show genuine interest in what someone else is saying, it makes them feel valued and important. It’s a small gesture, but one that can have a big impact on your likability factor.

As people get older, they often become better listeners. They’ve had more time to learn that listening is not just about hearing words, but understanding the emotions and intentions behind those words.

2) They’re more patient

I’ll share a personal example. My grandmother was the epitome of patience. No matter how chaotic the family gatherings, she always remained calm and composed, gently guiding the proceedings with a patient smile.

Her patience wasn’t just limited to family gatherings. Whether it was a long line at the grocery store or a frustrating customer service call, she never lost her cool. And people were drawn to her for it. She was well-liked not just within our family but in her community as well.

As I’ve grown older, I’ve tried to adopt her patience in my own life. I’ve noticed that when I remain patient, even in frustrating situations, people respond positively. It’s as if my calm helps them to find their own.

3) They’re more forgiving

With age often comes a greater capacity for forgiveness. Holding onto grudges or resentment can be emotionally tiring, and as people get older, they tend to realize the value of letting go and moving forward.

Research has shown that forgiveness can lead to better physical health, from lower blood pressure to a stronger immune system. But it also has social benefits. Being forgiving tends to make a person more likable.

When you forgive someone, you’re saying that their actions don’t define them entirely and that they have the capacity to change. 

4) They keep learning

One of the most admirable qualities in a person is their willingness to continue learning, no matter their age. 

People who keep learning as they get older are often more engaging to be around. They have interesting things to talk about, they’re open to new ideas, and they show a willingness to grow and change.

This doesn’t mean you need to be enrolled in formal education or mastering a new skill every month. It could be as simple as reading a new book, exploring a new place, or even just asking questions about something you don’t understand.

5) They express gratitude

When you express gratitude, you’re acknowledging the good in your life and the contributions of others to it. It’s a humbling act, one that shows you don’t take things for granted.

I’ve seen how transformative this behavior can be. I know a woman who, despite facing numerous health challenges and personal losses as she aged, always found something to be grateful for. This simple, heartfelt act of expressing gratitude made her incredibly likable.

Her resilience and positive outlook were infectious. People were drawn to her strength and her unwavering ability to find joy in even the smallest things.

6) They’re authentic

I’ve struggled with this in the past. For the longest time, I tried to fit into molds that weren’t quite right for me. I said things I thought others wanted to hear and hid parts of myself that I thought were less appealing.

But as I’ve gotten older, I’ve learned that authenticity is not only liberating but also a key to being more likable.

The moment I started being true to myself – embracing my quirks, expressing my thoughts more freely, and just being comfortable in my own skin – I noticed a shift in my relationships.

7) They stay optimistic

Life can throw us some curveballs as we age, but those who maintain a positive outlook often become more well-liked.

An optimistic person sees the best in others, brings a sense of hope to challenging situations, and generally adds a dose of positivity to their surroundings. This doesn’t mean they ignore the hard parts of life, but rather they choose to focus on the positive aspects and possibilities for growth.

Staying optimistic isn’t always easy as we face various challenges in life. But when you cultivate this behavior, you not only boost your own spirits but also uplift those around you.

8) They show kindness

The most crucial behavior that people adopt as they become more well-liked with age is kindness. Kindness is universal, it transcends age, language, and culture. It’s a simple act, yet it has the power to change lives and relationships.

Kindness can be as simple as a smile, a helping hand, or a thoughtful word. It doesn’t cost anything, but it can mean everything to someone else.

Final thoughts: It’s a journey

These subtle behaviors – from listening more to expressing gratitude and being kind – aren’t just about impressing others. They play a significant role in our personal growth and happiness.

A study published in the Journal of Research in Personality found that people who showed more kindness and understanding towards others were not only more likable but also more satisfied with their own lives.

So, as we traverse the journey of life, growing older and hopefully wiser, let’s strive to adopt these behaviors. Not just to become more likable, but to lead happier, more fulfilling lives.