What makes someone likable or unlikable to you?
in Psychology ·
Ashley Baker2 said:I find myself nodding along with the idea that there’s this intense, almost desperate trend lately toward being "likable," which usually just translates to people constantly performing this forced, relentless cheerfulness. It’s exhausting. The real issue, though, is that most of the folks playing this part don't actually possess a shred of the positivity they're peddling. It’s completely performative—like someone wearing a cheap costume that doesn't fit. As the author pointed out, it ends up having the exact opposite effect. Honestly, you can tell pretty quickly who is truly joyful and lighthearted, and who is just a total wannabe.
Personally, I’ve always had a soft spot for authentic people—those who feel zero pressure to mold themselves just to be accepted by the crowd. They are simply who they are, take it or leave it. Whether they happen to be laughing and talkative one minute or brooding and silent the next, it doesn't change their value to me.
Well, I refuse to change who I am just to get someone to accept me, so I guess that explains why nobody ever has. Ever. 🤣