Life

9 Weird Habits That People Find Attractive

by Carina Wolff

When we think of making ourselves more attractive, we usually think about changing our hair or putting on makeup, but it turns out, how others view you is affected by much more than your physical appearance. In fact, there are a number of bizarre little habits that can make you more attractive to others, and sneaking these little habits into your life can help people perceive you more positively. This can help you not only attract a potential suitor, but also friends, colleagues, or any other supportive person you would want in your life.

"I think coming across as outgoing, fun, warm, open-minded, confident and exhibiting high energy are all examples of traits that can influence perceived attractiveness," says psychotherapist Matt Traube, MFT over email. "Depending on someone’s preferences, which are usually influenced by their upbringing, a variety of bizarre behavior can be perceived as attractive."

Of course everyone is attracted to different things, but some habits are just universally preferred and make others feel good, thus drawing them to you. Some of these actions are also a little less obvious. Here are nine bizarre little habits that could make you more attractive to others — and they don't involve having to give yourself a complete makeover.

1. Making The First Move

If you're looking for a romantic relationship, it can pay off to be a little bold. It may be scary to be the first one to show your interest, but assertion and confidence can draw other people to you: Research from the journal Personal Relationships show that making the initial move is considered an attractive quality.

2. Body Language

"Actions absolutely influence perceived attractiveness," says Traube. "Basic actions such as direct eye contact, open body language and posture that is inviting, and the ability to engage and connect with others can all increase perceived attractiveness."

3. Wearing Red

When planning out your outfits, you might want to incorporate more pieces that are red. A study from the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology found that men are more attracted to women who wear red, likely because red has long been associated with status and power.

4. Smiling

There's a reason happy and charming people have so many friends and suitors. Happiness is considered the most attractive female expression, according to research from the journal Emotion. People are drawn to positive emotions and calm feelings, and a smile can convey friendliness and openness.

5. Mirroring Someone's Actions

It's definitely a strange one, but mimicking someone's behaviors can make you seem more attractive, according to a study done in The Netherlands. Imitating someone's movements can actually foster feelings of connectedness, and it's this interpersonal connection that draws others to you.

6. Ovulating

So you can't exactly control this one, and it's not exactly a habit, but when women ovulate, men find that they look and sound more attractive, according to research from the journal Hormones and Behavior. We can blame evolution on that one.

7. Seeking Thrills

Looking for love? Take your date on a rollercoaster. Single people who went for a ride on a rollercoaster rated members of the opposite sex as more attractive, according to a study in the journal Archives of Sexual Behavior.

8. Eating Fruits & Vegetables

Eating fruits and vegetables is good for more than just your health. Eating a good amount of produce can cause changes in the skin, giving you a warm glow that is perceived as more attractive, according to research published in the journal PLoS One.

9. Acting Like Someone's Parents

"If you grew up with a parent who behaved strangely, sometimes finding someone who has similar strange behavior can be appealing," says Traube. "Even if we know certain behaviors exhibited by a potential partner are bizarre, if they remind us of childhood, it can create a sense of comfort and security, which can influence perceived attractiveness."

At the end of the day, you can sneak these habits into your life if you want to, but it's most important to be yourself — and of course treat others well.

Images: Pexels (10)