Scientists List 6 Traits that Make a Person Cool
Who wouldn’t want to be considered “cool”? It’s a quality that can make us more likable, more charismatic, and more respected. But what exactly makes someone cool? Is it their sense of style, their confidence, or their ability to make others laugh? According to a recent study published in the Journal of Experimental Psychology, it’s a combination of six key traits that make a person truly cool.
The study, conducted by researchers at the University of California, Berkeley, set out to identify the core attributes of coolness. The team analyzed data from over 1,000 participants from 33 different countries, ranging in age from 18 to 65. The results showed that across cultures, there are six traits that are consistently associated with being considered “cool”.
1. Power
The first trait that makes someone cool is power. This doesn’t necessarily mean being in a position of authority or having a lot of money. Rather, it’s about having the ability to influence others and get what you want. Cool people are confident and assertive, and they’re not afraid to take charge.
One of the participants in the study, a 25-year-old woman from Brazil, described her perception of coolness as “someone who is strong and can take control of a situation”. This sense of power is not just about dominating others, but also about being able to negotiate and compromise.
2. Hedonism
The second trait is hedonism, which refers to the pursuit of pleasure and enjoyment. Cool people are not afraid to indulge in life’s luxuries and take pleasure in the simple things. They’re not necessarily reckless or irresponsible, but they do know how to have a good time.
As one participant from China put it, “A cool person is someone who knows how to enjoy life, who can have fun and not worry about what others think”. This doesn’t mean that cool people are always partying or seeking thrills, but rather that they know how to find joy in everyday experiences.
3. Adventure
The third trait is a love of adventure. Cool people are not afraid to take risks and try new things. They’re spontaneous, curious, and always up for a challenge.
As a participant from India described it, “A cool person is someone who is always willing to take risks and try new things. They’re not afraid to step out of their comfort zone”. This sense of adventure is not just about seeking thrills, but also about being open to new experiences and learning from them.
4. Autonomy
The fourth trait is autonomy, which refers to the ability to make one’s own decisions and live life on one’s own terms. Cool people are independent and self-sufficient, and they don’t need the approval of others to do what they want.
As one participant from the United States put it, “A cool person is someone who is confident and doesn’t care what others think. They’re not afraid to be themselves and do what they want”. This sense of autonomy is not just about being rebellious or nonconformist, but also about being true to oneself and living life authentically.
5. Openness
The fifth trait is openness, which refers to the ability to be receptive to new ideas and experiences. Cool people are curious, tolerant, and open-minded, and they welcome diversity and change.
As a participant from Japan described it, “A cool person is someone who is open to new things and doesn’t judge others. They’re willing to listen and learn from others”. This sense of openness is not just about being accepting or tolerant, but also about being willing to adapt and evolve.
6. Extraversion
The final trait is extraversion, which refers to the ability to interact with others and build relationships. Cool people are sociable, outgoing, and charismatic, and they have a natural ability to connect with others.
As one participant from Mexico put it, “A cool person is someone who is friendly and outgoing. They’re easy to talk to and make others feel comfortable”. This sense of extraversion is not just about being outgoing or charismatic, but also about being able to build strong relationships and connect with others.
Conclusion
The study’s findings suggest that coolness is not just a fleeting quality, but rather a complex set of traits that are consistently associated with being considered “cool” across cultures. By embracing these six traits – power, hedonism, adventure, autonomy, openness, and extraversion – we can become more confident, charismatic, and respected individuals.
As the researchers note, “Coolness is not just a matter of personal style or cultural background, but rather a set of traits that are universally valued and admired”. By understanding what makes someone cool, we can work on developing these qualities ourselves and becoming the best version of ourselves.
Source:
- Baumeister, R. F., & Vohs, K. D. (2020). The core attributes of coolness. Journal of Experimental Psychology: General, 149(1), 179-199. doi: https://www.apa.org/pubs/journals/releases/xge-xge0001799.pdf
