10 small habits that make people instantly feel comfortable around you

You ever notice how some people have this magical ability to make everyone feel at ease?

Like, they could walk into a room of strangers, and ten minutes later, they’re exchanging inside jokes with half of them.

For the longest time, I thought it was some innate gift, like being a natural athlete or having flawless skin.

But the truth? It’s not magic; it’s habits. Tiny, intentional things they do that make people gravitate toward them.

So, if you’ve ever wondered how to be that person—the one everyone feels comfortable around—here are ten simple habits to keep in mind.

Spoiler: It’s easier than you think, and it starts with something as small as a smile.

1) Smile genuinely

We often underestimate the power of a simple smile.

A genuine smile can instantly break down barriers and make people feel at ease. It’s like a universal language that communicates openness and friendliness.

But here’s the catch – it has to be sincere. People can easily detect a fake smile, which can make you come across as untrustworthy.

A genuine smile can’t be forced. It’s a natural response that comes from feeling happy or content.

I encourage you to find something to smile about, even if it’s just the fact that you’re having a conversation with someone new.

Your smile is your best accessory. Use it wisely and watch how quickly people warm up to you.

2) Listen actively

This is one habit I’ve personally found to make a significant difference.

I used to nod along during conversations, thinking about what I would say next, rather than truly listening. But when I started practicing active listening, I noticed a shift.

Active listening means fully focusing on the speaker, understanding their message, and responding thoughtfully. Active listeners show genuine interest in what they’re saying.

Once, during a conversation with a new colleague, I made a conscious effort to fully engage with what they were sharing.

I noticed their body language relax and their tone became more animated. That simple act of attentive listening helped establish a rapport that’s lasted to this day.

Active listening makes others feel valued and understood, and that’s an instant game-changer in making people comfortable around you.

3) Maintain eye contact

Eye contact is another powerful tool in creating comfort and trust.

It’s a non-verbal way of saying, “I’m present and I’m interested in what you’re saying.”

In fact, studies suggest that people who maintain eye contact are perceived as more reliable and intelligent.

But it’s a delicate balance. Too much can feel intimidating, while too little can come across as disinterest or dishonesty.

The key is to maintain natural eye contact throughout the conversation, breaking away occasionally to avoid staring. This simple habit can significantly enhance how people perceive you and feel around you.

4) Use open body language

Body language speaks volumes about us, often without us realizing it.

Open body language is all about being welcoming and receptive. It includes gestures like uncrossing your arms, maintaining an upright posture, and orienting your body towards the person you’re interacting with.

This sends a clear message that you’re engaged in the conversation and open to their ideas.

It’s a small adjustment, but one that can have a significant impact on how comfortable others feel around you.

Actions often speak louder than words. By consciously adopting open body language, you’re silently communicating your willingness to connect.

5) Show empathy

Empathy is the ability to understand and share the feelings of others.

It allows you to put yourself in their shoes and seeing the world from their perspective.

When you demonstrate empathy, you’re telling the other person that their thoughts and feelings matter to you. This can create a deep sense of comfort and trust.

Whether it’s acknowledging their struggles or celebrating their victories, showing empathy can make people feel seen, heard, and valued.

It’s a powerful habit that can foster stronger, more meaningful connections with those around you.

6) Be authentic

There’s something incredibly comforting about authenticity. Being real, being you.

In a world where so many people are trying to fit into certain molds, letting your true self shine through can be refreshing.

It can put others at ease and create a space where they feel free to be themselves too.

Authenticity encompasses honesty, transparency, and vulnerability. It allows you to drop down your guard and showing your true colors – the good, the bad, and everything in between.

When you’re authentic, you give others permission to do the same. And there’s something profoundly comforting about that kind of mutual acceptance and understanding.

7) Share a laugh

Laughter is a universal connector. It has a way of cutting through tension and building bridges.

I remember once being at a particularly nerve-wracking networking event. I was feeling pretty out of my depth until someone cracked a joke.

Suddenly, the room seemed less daunting, and I found myself connecting with people more easily.

Whether it’s a shared joke, a funny story, or even a bit of self-deprecating humor, laughter can instantly break the ice and create a sense of camaraderie.

Don’t be afraid to lighten the mood. A shared laugh can go a long way in making people feel comfortable around you.

8) Embrace silence

In our fast-paced world, we often feel the pressure to fill every silence. But sometimes, the most powerful thing you can do is nothing at all.

Silence allows for reflection. It gives the person you’re with the space to gather their thoughts and express themselves more fully.

It shows that you’re comfortable in their presence and you don’t feel the need to rush the conversation.

It might feel a bit strange at first, but give it a try. You might be surprised at how calming a moment of quiet can be in a conversation.

9) Show appreciation

Everyone likes to feel valued and appreciated.

A simple “thank you” or a compliment can go a long way in making someone feel comfortable around you.

Whether it’s acknowledging their input in a conversation, appreciating their help, or complimenting them on something, showing appreciation makes people feel seen and valued.

It communicates that you respect them and value their contributions. This can deepen the connection and make them feel more at ease around you.

Don’t hesitate to express your appreciation. It’s a small habit that can make a big difference.

10) Be patient

Building comfort takes time. It’s not something you can rush.

Patience shows that you’re willing to invest time in getting to know someone, to understand them, and to build a genuine connection.

It communicates respect and consideration, and that can make all the difference in how comfortable people feel around you.

Take your time. Be patient. It’s worth it.

The power of connection

When it comes down to it, making people feel comfortable doesn’t require you to be the funniest, smartest, or most charming person in the room.

You just need to show up as someone who listens, someone who cares, and someone who sees the value in a shared laugh or a quiet moment.

At its core, it’s all about connection—the kind that says, “I see you, I hear you, and I’m glad you’re here.”

And when you create that kind of space for someone, they’ll always remember how you made them feel.

So, go ahead—smile a little more, embrace the silences, and maybe crack a joke now and then. Because the secret to being approachable isn’t a trick; it’s simply being human in a way that lets others feel human too.