Express gratitude for success. This will make you look grateful rather than boastful. For example, “I can’t believe how great I did on that test. I’m glad I studied so hard. " Find ways to sound self-deprecating while working in a brag. For example, you got a new internship at a very prestigious magazine. You could say something like, “It’s the most professional sounding job title used to indicate I grab big time publishers coffee. "

Watch what you post. Try to post things that make your life look fun and exciting. For example, post happy statuses about success at work or school. Post photographs of you and your friends having fun. Post pictures of any fancy possession you have or events you attended. Try to avoid posting anything negative. People are unlikely to envy you if you, say, got a “D” on a test or had a negative exchange with your boss. Rant about these issues to close friends rather than broadcasting them online.

Find ways to make yourself look cultured. Start reading the most recently acclaimed books. Attend museums and art shows. See films lauded as artistic and groundbreaking. Work these things into conversations. For example, “I just finished reading that new Toni Morrison book this week. . . " or “Did you see that new photography exhibit at the Art Institute?” Much like bragging, however, try not to be over-the-top. Wait until a moment comes to naturally bring such things up in conversation.

Tell anecdotes of your travels at parties and get-togethers. Share pictures online and with others during social events. If you’ve traveled somewhere where you’ve been exposed to other cultures, mention this. This can make you look worldly.

Spend your time with people who bring you up. You should strive to hang out with people who are successful, interesting, and motivated. This can make other people envy your social circle. For example, try to befriend the most successful person at your office or the best student in your class. Try to make it look as if you’re busy. If someone asks you to go out on the weekend, mention your schedule and obligations. This will make your life look packed with exciting activities.

To look stylish, dress in quality classic pieces that fit well. Keep your outfit monochromatic or wear neutrals or dark colors. Vary your fabric textures, layer your clothes, and add interest with accessories. Splurge on some nice clothes. More expensive outfits may cost a bit more, but they’ll last longer and make you look more impressive. You can also pair more expensive items with cheaper staples. For example, a pricey blouse or button-down shirt can be worn with a cheaper pair of dress pants. If you’re on a budget, try shopping somewhere like Marshall’s or TJ Maxx. These places often sell designer clothing for discount prices.

Start by watching the news. Turn on CNN in the background while you clean at home. Listen to a news show on your morning commute. You can also read some. Get a subscription to magazines that talk about world events. Check a few online news sources each morning. Read some books that cover basic world history and culture. Find ways to mention your knowledge of world events on occasion. If someone is talking about current events, for example, throw in a few references to something you’ve read or watched recently.

Try to go into any situation with a positive attitude. Hope for the best at school, work, social situations, and other aspects of your life. Surround yourself with other positive people. You do not want to be around anyone who’s going to drain you emotionally. [9] X Research source Engage in positive self-talk. If you screw something up at work, think, “This is an opportunity to grow” instead of “I’m so mad at myself for failing. “[10] X Research source

Be upfront with others. Showcase your unique sense of humor and style. Express your interests and opinions without shame. People will be drawn to you naturally if you give off a sense of authenticity.

If there’s an area in your life you would like to improve, work on it. This may help improve your confidence. If you’re insecure about your body, for example, try working out and eating healthier. Take action in your life. If you’re more proactive, you’ll feel better about yourself. Talk to someone you think is attractive at the bar. Approach someone at a networking event. [11] X Research source Speak more assertively. This can help you feel confident. Avoid “ums” and “uhs. " Simply cut to your point.

Sit up straight, smile, and make eye contact. This will make you look energetic and enthusiastic. [12] X Trustworthy Source US Department of Labor Federal department responsible for promoting the wellbeing of workers Go to source Go into every situation with a willingness to listen to others, learn, and try new things.