7 Small Habits to Become a More Interesting Person

No one is born inherently fascinating. Being an interesting person is cultivated through small choices, actions, and consistent efforts over time. By developing certain habits, you can become someone who sparks curiosity and leaves a lasting impression.

1. Start a Conversation Every Day

Melinda Blau, an American journalist and relationship expert, suggests challenging yourself to connect with someone every day.

This could be a quick phone call to a friend or relative, a casual chat with the person behind you in line at a café, or greeting a neighbor walking their dog.

"To be interesting, you have to take an interest in others. Listen, engage, ask questions, and learn," Blau says. She highlights that social connections are as crucial to your well-being as a healthy diet or regular exercise.

"People are drawn to you when they sense your openness and curiosity. You feel better about yourself, and your relationships flourish," she adds.

2. Ask Intriguing Questions

Workplace culture expert Adam Smiley Poswolsky notes that most of us default to mundane questions like "Where are you from?" or "What do you do?" with strangers, and "How are you?" or "What did you do this weekend?" with people we know.

As the author of Friendship in the Age of Loneliness, Poswolsky explains that people are so accustomed to these questions that their answers rarely feel fresh or meaningful.

Interesting individuals ask thought-provoking questions, opening the door to deeper and more engaging conversations. For example:

"What song has been stuck in your head lately?"

"What skill are you trying to improve right now?"

"Who has inspired you recently, and why?"

3. Cultivate Curiosity

Annisa Pirasteh, a marriage and family therapist, emphasizes the importance of curiosity. She encourages intentional engagement with the world around you.

For instance, if you come across a recipe online that excites you, ask yourself what drew you to it. Is it an ingredient you've never tried before? Cook the dish and share it at a dinner party, sparking conversation around it.

Similarly, if you hear about a great book, read the summary or reviews to see if it piques your interest. “You might even start a book club with friends,” Pirasteh suggests.

4. Go on a Solo Date

In her book The Artist's Way, Julia Cameron advises setting aside time each week for a solo outing to explore something you love or find intriguing.

"This could be a trip to a bird shop, a children’s bookstore, a flower market, or an art museum," Cameron says.

Damona Hoffman, a dating coach and podcast host of Dates & Mates, emphasizes that solo outings are about personal discovery, not group activities. "Many people avoid cultivating personal hobbies because they fear being alone. They often follow friends' or partners' plans instead of venturing out on their own," she explains.

Spending time alone allows you to pursue what genuinely excites you, free from the pressure to please others.

5. Embrace Different Perspectives

In an era where social media often reinforces existing beliefs, stepping out of your ideological bubble is more important than ever.

Hoffman suggests reading books, listening to podcasts, or engaging in conversations that expose you to diverse viewpoints. Interesting people have a knack for considering others' experiences and perspectives.

By being open to how others see the world, you enrich your understanding and develop a wealth of insights to share. “When people feel comfortable sharing openly with you, they often find you more compelling,” Hoffman explains.

6. Dive Deep Into Your Passions

Travel journalist and content creator La Carmina observes that the most interesting people are those who delve deeply into their interests, whether it’s skincare, climate change, or fashion.

Even if others see the topic as trivial, someone who is genuinely passionate can make it captivating. Their enthusiasm often sparks engaging conversations and connections.

If you’re unsure about your passions, illustrator and designer Tevy Khou advises reflecting on what naturally excites you. Think about the activities or topics that energize you, even if they’re unconventional.

"The most interesting people are unapologetically themselves and don’t worry about others’ opinions," Khou says.

7. Surprise and Share

Being interesting often means being unpredictable. "What makes someone fascinating is their ability to surprise us or challenge our expectations," says psychologist Randi Siegel.

According to Pirasteh, people who draw others in tend to have deep knowledge or enthusiasm about something and are open to sharing it. They are authentic and willing to connect on a meaningful level.

Conclusion: Becoming Uniquely You

Becoming an interesting person isn’t about being flashy or overly charismatic—it’s about cultivating curiosity, embracing authenticity, and making meaningful connections. By adopting these seven habits, you’ll not only enrich your life but also inspire and engage those around you.

In a world full of superficial interactions, your willingness to explore, learn, and share could make you the most interesting person in the room.