Simple Tips for How to Be Popular

To learn how to be popular, you must learn to be a good friend. That's easier than you think.

We've all the people whom everyone wants to be around. They are always surrounded by friends, always get invited to parties and seem to have it all together. They are The Popular People. But what does it mean to be popular? Does it mean having the perfect clothes and the perfect hair? Being popular doesn't mean being perfect; it means being well-liked by one's peers. There is no magic trick to being popular, nor is it some elusive quality that only the most attractive and best-dressed can achieve.

• Be Kind. Treat others with kindness and respect. Although you might think it's cool to talk trash about the new kid or the substitute teacher, remember that your rude comments don't make you look cool, they just make you look mean. It's like your Mom always said, "If you don't have anything nice to say, don't say anything at all."
• Don't be a follower. Just because "everyone else is doing it" doesn't mean you have to do it too. People who aren't afraid to make their own choices in life exude confidence, which is a common trait of popular people.
• Listen to what others have to say. Rather than going on and on about yourself when you are talking with someone, ask other people how they are doing. Really listen to their responses. The ability to pay attention to other people's thoughts, feelings and ideas is another quality that makes you a good friend.
• Be optimistic. No one wants to hang around with a grouch. We all have a bad day now and then, but try not to focus on the negatives in your life. The ability to roll with life's little disappointments is an admirable quality.
• Be helpful. Part of being a good friend is helping those in need. Small kindnesses, such as helping your friend out with that big project or helping your neighbor shovel the driveway, are appreciated and remembered.

Remember that being popular is not about what you wear, whom you date, what you drive or how much money your parents have. Being popular is about being liked for who you are and the things that you do.