Four Things That Can Sabotage Your Likability

Four Things That Can Sabotage Your Likability

Did you know being likable increases your chances of living a more successful life? It will not make you instantly successful, and it doesn’t mean those who are successful are all nice and easy-going people. In fact, many rude people still make it in this world, but that doesn’t mean they got there easily or without consequences.

Likability makes it easier to communicate, relate and inspire those around you – characteristics that all work together to increase your success as a business owner. Even if you don’t own a business, likability makes it easier to build personal and professional relationships that only provide increased value to all areas of your life. 

Here are four things that can sabotage your likability, and how to avoid them:

You Gossip

While obvious, this is an important habit that many are guilty of no matter how nice they are or try to be. It is a toxic and sometimes contagious habit that can be prevented by active awareness, understanding, and care for others. In the end, the only person you have a right to talk about is yourself. Even if the comments have truth to them, the popular phrase, “If you have nothing nice to say, don’t say it,” is still true and valuable to this day.

You Constantly Complain

Having a difficult time here and there and seeking help is not the same as constantly complaining. Constantly complaining is when you find the negativity in every situation and share your frustration. This habit only creates a negative atmosphere that lowers people's energy and happiness.

You Claim Victimhood

Constant complaining usually pairs with claiming victimhood -- the act of never taking accountability for your actions and blaming others for your mistakes. Yet, no one lives without errors, and recognizing your actions or inactions is the first step to personal and professional growth.

You Micromanage

No one likes someone who takes over and expects things to be done exactly their way. Likable people understand healthy boundaries and that they will not always have the answer. They know that other people have value to provide too.

If you want to be more likable, take the time to recognize these four behaviors that may be hindering your success, and implement strategies to control or avoid them. What you give out the most to the world is what you will receive. In other words, if you give negativity, don’t expect anything else in return but negativity. The more you work to avoid these negative behaviors, the more likable you will become, making it easier to achieve your goals.