Being an intriguing person isn’t about your rank or fortune; it’s about your perspective on the world, the stories you tell, and your zest for life. A new perspective and remaining loyal to oneself can make a lasting impression without the need to stand out in unusual ways. Dale Carnegie once said in his 1936 book, “How to Win Friends & Influence People,” “To be interesting, be interested.”

This ancient advise urges us to stay connected to the world by engaging in important conversations or following our passions. However, when everyday activities become repetitive, it can be difficult to stay inspired and maintain a sense of wonder. Damona Hoffman, presenter of the “Dates & Mates” podcast, told HuffPost that being intriguing is not a set trait. It is a skill that is developed via purposeful action and persistent practice. Like any other interpersonal skill, the more you practice it, the more natural it gets. Here are some ways to help you become an interesting person.

1. Read. Traveling can broaden your viewpoint, but you don’t have to leave your home to discover different cultures or historical periods. Reading, whether ancient classics or modern blogs, is an effective approach to engage with new tales and ideas. This habit can improve empathy and understanding. “People who read more fiction were better at empathy and understanding others,” psychologist and novelist Keith Oatley wrote in The Washington Post.

2. Be curious. Annisa Pirasteh, a marriage and family therapist at Atlanta’s Act2Change Therapy & Wellness Center, urges people to develop curiosity by connecting carefully with their surroundings. Speaking with HuffPost, she suggested starting simple, such as exploring social media with a curious mind. For example, discovering an amazing recipe may lead to trying it, arranging a dinner party, and initiating talks. Similarly, discovering a new book might lead to reading reviews, purchasing a copy, and even starting a casual book club with friends to share the experience.

3. Be receptive to other people’s perspectives. In a world where social media and algorithms frequently reinforce our pre-existing beliefs, experts emphasize the significance of moving beyond our ideological bubbles. Damona Hoffman, host of the Dates & Mates podcast, urges people to seek out different ideas through reading, podcasts, travel, and interactions. She feels that interacting with diverse perspectives leads to richer experiences and more fascinating conversations.

Hoffman further points out that fostering an environment in which others feel comfortable contributing increases your engagement. Meanwhile, clinical sexologist Lawrence Siegel points out that effective listening develops genuine connections and allows you to relate to people, making you more fascinating.

4. Follow your passions. According to experts, the most interesting people are those that are passionate about their own interests, such as skin care, climate change, or voguing. La Carmina, a travel journalist, believes these people stand out because they devote their time to learning and sharing their passions, regardless of how others see them.

Assume you need clarification on what excites you. In that instance, illustrator Tevy Khou advocates thinking about what makes you happy, even if it isn’t a trendy trend. Practicing self-love and focusing on your interests can help you figure out what motivates you. Siegel adds that surprise others with unexpected hobbies or characteristics might help you become more memorable and interesting.

Furthermore, Pirasteh underlines the importance of authenticity—being genuine while discussing your hobbies sets you apart and keeps others engaged. “Each of our lived experiences are unique and beautiful, and that alone makes us interesting people,” she told me.