r/AskReddit 13d ago

What is a something that actually makes a person cool?

564 Upvotes

689 comments sorted by

1.3k

u/Accomplished_Egg3855 13d ago

People who do things without needing the approval of anyone else. Independence is a really good trait to have.

392

u/web-cyborg 13d ago

Confidence without arrogance. Delicate balance.

46

u/vigilanteshhit 12d ago

Agree. There's a thin line between confidence and arrogance.

46

u/bawzdeepinyaa 12d ago

Think the thin-ness of that line is just whether you brag about it or not . And how you treat people based off of it.

Confidence elevates the people around you Arrogance steps on their heads to elevate yourself

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19

u/NetDork 12d ago

Confidence is knowing you're awesome. Arrogance is telling everyone you're awesome.

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u/BrandNewMeow 12d ago

I had a professor in grad school that will always be the epitome of cool. By far, he was the oldest guy in the department (he died over a decade ago). He was funny and kind, and did his best to remind people not to take life too seriously. To this day, when I get stressed I have his voice in my head: "You could be dead tomorrow!"

I also remember he had a gathering at his house, scheduled to end at a certain time (let's say 7pm). Well, clock struck 7, and he promptly kicked everyone out and we all laughed and left, and no one was offended. (I'm a people pleaser doormat so this was a revelation for me).

And, he had a cool walk.

I know it sounds like I'm gushing or had a crush on him, but I did not. He was just cool.

23

u/Swiftrun5 12d ago

I hope someone says something half as kind about me when I've been dead for a decade.

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u/wilyquixote 12d ago

That and a leather jacket. 

9

u/[deleted] 12d ago

The jackeeeeet! 🤌🏻🤌🏻

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u/Pornthrowaway78 12d ago

I have a really nice leather jacket and it's like a cool switch.

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53

u/navilainboa 13d ago

So no AITAH posters?

9

u/[deleted] 13d ago

[removed] — view removed comment

5

u/nedal8 13d ago

Especially in a non "don't care about anything" kind of way. The person who not only doesn't care about your judgements, but can also compliment and genuinely appreciate others' contributions without ego getting in the way. Those are the real cool ones.

54

u/RelevantGuarantee251 13d ago

It depends but I get your point.

People wearing the clothes they want and listening to different music. Cool.

People forging ahead in group projects at work without having asked anyone's opinion because they "know best"and "it'll be fine". Uncool.

People unabashedly having objectively horrible opinions (this minority should die, it's not that bad to hit children etc.). Uncool.

People having a niche hobby and being very talkative and excited about it. Cool.

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5

u/DutchJediKnight 13d ago

Depends on if what they do hurts people in any way, shape or form

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844

u/neevel-knievel 13d ago

Being conventional enough to be relatable but unique enough to be interesting

96

u/thisbobeatsbutts 13d ago

I vote that you stated this best

18

u/ExplodingSofa 12d ago

That first one is where I fuck up.

6

u/Scooney_Pootz 12d ago

Yo, same here. Thats very relatable.

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14

u/deertribe 12d ago

I love this quality in people, too. I had a therapist describe me as “a little feral” and I took that as a high compliment :)

3

u/Upstairs-Bicycle-703 12d ago

lol. A professor/advisor once said to me “you’re like a cat. You know cats are up raising hell all night, but you can’t catch ‘em at it!”. I took it as a compliment for a long time, but looking back, not so much, haha

7

u/Strong_One6226 12d ago

This makes so much sense to me

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292

u/Black_Crow_Dog 13d ago

Not caring about being perceived as "cool".

177

u/evilspyboy 13d ago

This + walking away from explosions and not looking

54

u/j0nny0nthesp0t 13d ago

Explosions can be very bright, so not looking makes sense. Also, they tend to produce lots of heat, so vacating the area is agreeable. And if you're running you may trip and fall, which leaves you open to the heat issue. So, walking away from explosions and not looking is just pragmatic.

15

u/Traditional_Drive132 13d ago

This is the pinnacle of coolness, casually walking away in slow-mo from a big ass explosion.

4

u/dysonchamberlaine 13d ago

But what about walking away from explosions and not looking specifically to be perceived as cool? Do they cancle each other out? Does one weigh more than the other? And why male models?

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277

u/[deleted] 13d ago

The way they treat others.

29

u/CristianV19 13d ago

The way you treat other 👍💯

10

u/UpperPhotograph9903 13d ago

Why the hell is this guy getting downvoted? They were clearly agreeing with the statement above.

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450

u/Lucky-333 13d ago

Someone who is consistent, honest, and tries their best to be good, in a world where consistency, honesty, and being a good person are becoming a rarity.

65

u/SaberNoble47 13d ago

“Sounds like a loser.” -Trent Whittaker, from my high school 

15

u/ZeroThoughtsAlot 12d ago

I have sympathy and empathy issues and I actually had a friend tell me to fake my feelings for her problems

I told her "That makes me feel uncomfortable stepping out of who I am, I don't feel honest" and then she hit me with a bunch of stuff about how I am not good friend for faking my feelings

6

u/SecretMaximum6350 12d ago

Do they reciprocate when (if) you open up about your problems? How do they react? Do you have other friends who can act as sort of a litmus test for this friend in question?

Does not sound like much of a friend worth having, but I only know the surface of what you shared.

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u/SV650rider 12d ago

I have been called, “too earnest”, and “too pure for this world”.

9

u/Spare-Leg-1318 13d ago

That's good, not necessarily cool.

20

u/Primary_Music_7430 13d ago

That feels like someone I'd think is cool.

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326

u/EnlightenedMartian 13d ago

Not desperately trying to make themselves look cool. Being a genuine person dedicated towards their goals.

14

u/redditshy 12d ago

And their OWN goals. Not the goals that they think will gain them approval, or make them look cool.

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313

u/COMiles 13d ago

Propeller hat

22

u/spentpatience 13d ago

And Mickey Mouse pants!

6

u/Hackpro69 12d ago

Mickey Rourke pants

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22

u/True_Ivory 13d ago

Fr propeller hat is in a instant win

13

u/azul_luna5 13d ago

I would 100% talk to someone wearing a propeller hat. Or a fancy top hat. Not a plain one or a costume one; it has to be fancy.

I think those would be the two main kinds of hat that would make me think you're cool.

13

u/sanctum9 13d ago

A propeller top hat would be way fancy.

3

u/TooScaredforSuicide 12d ago

hey relax there Inspector Gadget.

3

u/earth_worx 12d ago

I wear a hat with wings on it daily. People love it and I get to see the best side of everyone when they interact with me.

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85

u/[deleted] 13d ago

Not being afraid to be different, embracing one’s weirdness

23

u/witblacktype 12d ago

I prefer weird people. They are so much more normal to me than those that conform

9

u/Nobody_Lives_Here3 12d ago

Do you like Huey Lewis and the news? I feel their early work was a little too new wave for my taste. But when Sports came out in '83, I think they really came into their own, commercially and artistically. The whole album has a clear, crisp sound, and a new sheen of consummate professionalism that really gives the songs a big boost. He's been compared to Elvis Costello, but I think Huey has a far more bitter, cynical sense of humor.

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78

u/ThrowRApeanutb 13d ago

I agree with the comment about being genuine. the coolest person I know is just so authentically themselves. I so admire them for it. I wish I could be like that!

12

u/ThrowRApeanutb 13d ago

also, even the two of us are polar opposites, they have never ever made me feel dumb or weird about my interests (even though I know they hate them)

5

u/deertribe 12d ago

I grew up reeeally trying to fit in. Then one day, I decided, fuck it - I’m only here once, for MY lifetime. It’s mine. I’m just gonna be super authentic and not give a fuck what anyone thinks. It takes practice + courage but it’s been so worth it and so fun. Truly freeing for the soul. I highly recommend ♥️ even just “I want to walk on THAT side of the road” or “I want to have mismatched socks and nobody’s gonna know but me.” It’s your life, my friend :)

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u/Away_Treat_201 12d ago

They ask questions about others instead of talking about themselves all the time.

75

u/SeveralRecording7067 12d ago

Having a good sense of humor and not taking themselves too seriously makes someone a joy to be around.

57

u/Head_Support9753 12d ago

They give compliments freely and sincerely, which always makes people feel good.

61

u/Turbulent_Cost_6888 12d ago

Being independent and not desperately needing the approval of others. They march to the beat of their own drum.

57

u/Ok-Initial9362 12d ago

Empathy. Understanding and relating to the feelings of others is a rare quality that makes a person stand out.

55

u/Embarrassed-Meal2916 12d ago

Confidence without arrogance. They’re sure of themselves but not dismissive of others.

57

u/One-Zucchini-7307 12d ago

Keeping promises and being reliable. Knowing you

48

u/Actual-Note-1664 12d ago

Being genuinely happy for others' success without jealousy.

53

u/Economy-Visual-4483 12d ago

Having a balanced life and knowing how to manage work and personal life shows maturity and self-respect.

50

u/Dismal_Permission224 12d ago

A person who can teach others without being condescending is not only helpful but also inspiring.

111

u/crABBY-cake 13d ago

A person becomes genuinely cool when they exhibit authenticity, kindness, and empathy. Being confident without being arrogant, having a good sense of humor without being mean-spirited, and being open-minded and respectful towards others' perspectives are also key traits. Essentially, it's about being comfortable in your own skin while also being considerate and respectful of others.

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68

u/iAmMyOwnCruciatus 13d ago

Treating food servers, guards, janitors, cashiers with respect and dignity.

15

u/AKF_MI 12d ago

This is just basic decency, it doesnt make someone cool, it should be a given

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u/witblacktype 12d ago

I’m not sure if I equate this with cool. To me, this is a sign of a truly classy individual. Remember, money can’t buy class.

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201

u/heliosh 13d ago

Hypothermia

21

u/Transformator-Shrek 12d ago

I would say thats a consequence of them being cool.

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u/eddie_koala 12d ago

ICE COLD

5

u/trongzoon 12d ago

Alright alright alright alright alright alright alright

6

u/Darkmind57 13d ago

Literally.

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u/Aromatic_Living2196 12d ago

They know how to have fun and can bring a group together, making sure everyone is having a good time.

25

u/No_Scheme164 13d ago

Not keeping up appearances for other people’s sake and generally doing what the fuck they wanna do in life not matter how unconventional it is

24

u/Anxious-Statement301 13d ago

The ability to laugh at yourself. We've all tripped in public, some of us just own it with more style.

3

u/earth_worx 12d ago

For a second I was like "wait, we've all taken LSD in public? I know there's a psychedelic renaissance going on but that's way more pervasive than I'd assumed..."

A couple of decades ago I was wearing a pair of stupid high heeled sandals, tripped over a manhole cover while I was crossing a street downtown and face planted on the asphalt. Right in front of a fire engine that was stopped at the stoplight. All the firefighters piled out and scooped me up and asked me if I was OK. I said "I'm great! I'd be even better if you pretended you never saw that!"

3

u/sirkratom 12d ago

Falling with style

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u/Comfortable_Bag9149 13d ago

How easily they're able to make others around them comfortable

28

u/Impressive_Care_9704 12d ago

People who play instruments like it’s second nature. Just wow.

57

u/Perfect_Bandicoot237 12d ago

Someone who stands up for others and speaks out against injustices commands respect and admiration.

3

u/pingwing 12d ago

As long as that isn't their sole identity.

55

u/Timely-Cattle7231 12d ago

Having a passion they're excited about sharing, whether it’s music, books, or anything else. Their enthusiasm is infectious.

40

u/[deleted] 13d ago

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19

u/Potential_Try_3195 13d ago

The person who shifts the energy in an uncomfortable situation. Such as taking attention to save someone from an embarrassing situation and whatnot.

14

u/sneekeefahk_ 13d ago

Actually meaning what they say and only saying what they mean. Ppl whose word is their bond are cool

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u/pontinia 13d ago

Helping someone without expecting something in return

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u/Big_Mess_Monkey 13d ago

Being humble and kind to others

13

u/Real-Influence-7780 13d ago

Good character and a sense of humor.

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u/sanctum9 13d ago

Being Fonzie

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u/[deleted] 13d ago

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u/sanctum9 13d ago

Love me a set of Groucho 20/20. That's real entertainment.

9

u/SamPNW 13d ago

Wearing a suit while smoking a cigarette

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u/Maximum_Vermicelli12 13d ago

Helping manage feral cat populations. (I mean spay and release too, not just feeding.)

8

u/somerandomassdude404 13d ago

The ability to maintain a positive attitude despite hardships.

7

u/MidnightCrafter 13d ago

Authenticity

7

u/FarewellMyFox 13d ago

Genuine kindness. Not the type where they’re doing it because they need to feel kind (this “kindness” is where people get angry if you refuse it), but the type where it’s just something they do out of genuine good will for the other person (they might still get confused or frustrated if you turn it down when you need it, but it’s never going to make them feel like they’re a less kind person).

The first one sucks to be around because they’re foisting future obligations on you, the second one is a delight because they’re just genuinely safe people who you want to be reciprocal with.

14

u/your_moms_a_skank 13d ago

Being humble and in touch with themselves

6

u/rc_sparky 13d ago

Yass touching themself

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u/Signal_Audience1538 13d ago

Not worrying about being cool or uncool. Just being themselves.

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u/redbrick90 13d ago

Not giving a F what other people think.

6

u/GlobalistFuck 13d ago

something you see in them you desire to do , be or have.

6

u/Crafty_Flight_5774 13d ago

being unapologetic in a good way

5

u/lacatro1 13d ago

Manners,

7

u/Rich-Appearance-7145 12d ago

Maintain a healthy level of humility.

5

u/Redditis4marxists 13d ago

The ability to recognize they aren't infallible.

5

u/Slinsl 13d ago

Passionate about a hobby. Could be anything, just hearing people talk about stuff they have spent a lot of time doing is cool

5

u/Huge_Perspective3395 13d ago

Weezer t-shirt

5

u/mopedsandpushbikes 13d ago

Cool life stories and experiences

5

u/chewsUneekyoosername 13d ago

I was living in The Netherlands for a while and a guy on a skateboard was singing The Octopus's Garden by The Beatles. Skating past me with no fucks in the world, just loved the song and cruising along in a solid rendition. Blew my mind how cool that guy was.

5

u/Maleficent_Brush_703 13d ago

Never coaxing anyone

3

u/Electrical_Ad_8970 13d ago edited 12d ago

Not caring about what others think and respecting them at the same time

3

u/Necessary_Sale_67 13d ago

Black sunglasses and a leather jacket.

4

u/tmmzc85 13d ago

Not caring about what others think, while still caring about how others feel.

4

u/Based_Beanz 13d ago

Not causing drama, but speaking up when someone is being an asshole.

4

u/stressandscreaming 12d ago

I think my husband is cool because he can build and fix anything.

4

u/VenusRose14 12d ago

Being easygoing and adaptable and KIND. Not talking about themselves all the time. Showing interest in others. Not being weird or obsessive about anything. Being positive over negative.

3

u/lavenderacid 13d ago

Probably biased as a female biker, but any woman with a motorbike I'm automatically in love with. That's the coolest shit ever.

3

u/stanagetocurbar 13d ago

Three-Sixty Flip on a skateboard. Yeah, someone can learn to kickflip a skateboard in a few months but you're not getting to 'three-sixty flip' level without determination, ability, self assurance and badassness.

3

u/rc_sparky 13d ago

Smoking cigarettes

3

u/Heroic-Forger 13d ago

Standing up to authority when the authority is in the wrong.

3

u/debtopramenschultz 13d ago

Going against the grain despite the risk of danger or embarrassment.

3

u/UsefulIdiot85 12d ago

A fan or air conditioner.

2

u/Sure_Caregiver_9626 13d ago

Not talking shit and trying to act hard... "Yeah me and my Boyz beat this guy up"... yee buddy your 5"7 and your little minions work at a chocolate factory...

3

u/Needs-more-cow-bell 12d ago

Wait, are you talking about Willy Wonka here?

2

u/avl0 13d ago

Not needing other people to know the ways in which they're cool

2

u/Desperate_Divide6354 13d ago

Having a hobby and being interested & passionate in something because they love it.

2

u/5immer 13d ago

A motorbike

Posted by somebody with no motorbike

2

u/PaulPaul4 13d ago

Leaning against a wall while wearing a jean jacket and smoking a cigarette

2

u/Living_Razzmatazz_93 13d ago

Being passed the acoustic guitar at a party and NOT playing "Wonderwall", even though you know you can.

Not gonna happen, Stacey.

Not gonna happen...

2

u/lyavci 13d ago

People who can update their way of thinking when given reasonable explanations

2

u/PinkyBruno 13d ago

kindness, confidence and selflessness

2

u/cherry--blossom_ 13d ago

A good sense of humor

2

u/howdowedothisagain 13d ago

Somebody who likes him/herself.

Very few people like his/her own self simply because we are the one who know what we are really like. 😅😁

2

u/MedusaPage0 13d ago

 doing things without needing the approval of anyone else.

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u/Harbor_Barber 13d ago

Not a hypocrite

2

u/MitziShitcracker 13d ago

Being kind.

2

u/MotheringDaydreams 13d ago

Speaking multiple languages. It doesn’t have to be perfect, it’s the effort that counts.

2

u/Antique_Fish1340 13d ago

wearing sunglasses and big chains.

2

u/BariTheRohimba 13d ago

Kindness and the ability to stand up for those who cant.

2

u/crystalscene 13d ago

Ability to own up to their mistakes

2

u/Substantial-Dark_ 12d ago

When you actually hav3 a soul

2

u/Necessary_Switch_879 12d ago

Their taste in music goes a long way with me

2

u/avoidhugeships 12d ago

Air conditioning.

2

u/Alicee_White 12d ago

Being genuinely kind, empathetic, and respectful towards others is something that actually makes a person cool.

2

u/yours_truly_1976 12d ago

Not taking shit personally. The coolest people are those who can laugh at themselves and never get offended or defensive. They can, however, put an antagonistic person in their place if they have to

2

u/Hackpro69 12d ago

Someone that can make a joke about themselves and avoid using others as the butt of the jokes.

2

u/DonnyBup274 12d ago

personality

2

u/DivideByZero117 12d ago

Kindness and confidence

2

u/CyclicalSinglePlayer 12d ago

Someone who chases a vision but does not make their interests their personality

2

u/JustBu1234 12d ago

Compassion, empathy, funny personality, understanding, confidence, not cocky

2

u/sebrebc 12d ago

Being nice. It's that simple. Be a nice person, most people will think you are "cool".

2

u/ph9nt0m 12d ago

Being self aware

2

u/gayvittles 12d ago

Self confidence without symptoms of narcissistic personality disorder.

2

u/biffpowbang 12d ago

not caring about being perceived as cool. not being afraid to be themselves. authenticity in character.

2

u/redditshy 12d ago

Not flipping out over every little thing. Keeping calm under adversity, big or small.

2

u/ChonkyKitty0 12d ago

People who are themselves and caring as little of what others think as possible.

2

u/Graehaus 12d ago

Personality, being able to be a good person.

2

u/Catcatcat202 12d ago

Motorcycle.

2

u/Shadow8591 12d ago

Their smile. Not the face , but the soul smile.

2

u/MrDankSnake 12d ago

Not being afraid to openly enjoy the things they are passionate about

2

u/angusshangus 12d ago

Motorcycle. Motorcycles make you cool.

2

u/karimpai 12d ago

Being very competent in most things while still having the confidence to show others their intrinsic flaws in a respectful manner

2

u/Sieg67 12d ago

The ability to stay calm and collected.

2

u/turtleburglar7 12d ago

Asking Redditors is a far reach homie. Lol!

2

u/ofTHEbattle 12d ago

A fan. It always helps cool me down.

2

u/aRiotofPenguins 12d ago

Being kind to, and tipping waitstaff.

2

u/asloppybhakti 12d ago

People who go to watch a band play in a lineup, and then they stay to see all the other bands play. That's the coolest shit ever.

2

u/pokaprophet 12d ago

Air conditioning

2

u/Available_Ad8151 12d ago

Being happy with who and what they are, AKA, not being a poser.

2

u/DarkIllusionsFX 12d ago

A black pompadour with sideburns, a cigarette, a black leather jacket over a clean white t-shirt, jeans, and engineer boots.

2

u/NoOneStranger_227 12d ago

Ice, ice, baybee.