I used to be terrified of being the most boring person in the room...until I started paying attention to people I found interesting. I watched the most interesting person in the room (the person who grabbed my attention, and more importantly, everyone else's attention) and noticed what made them so likeable. I picked up tips and through observation and experimentation, I learned to engage others without any angst.

Being an interesting and likeable person can make it easier to meet people, make friends and can work wonders for you career. It allows you to make connections and keep them. People want to be around people they like - which could be you. Here are six must-follow steps to become more likeable:

1. Be interested

You want to be interesting? The first step is to be interested. Find things that interest you! Make it a hobby, research it, talk about it or try new things you've never tried to see if you like them. Be interested in learning about other people and what things they like to do. Then, go talk to those around you.

2. Listen

The most captivating people are often the people who say the least. People love to talk about themselves and there are simply not enough good listeners in the world. So, pledge to be one of them. Let everyone around you talk. Be engaged in what they are saying and what interests them.

An excellent first impression doesn't have to be made by impressing people with voicing what you know. That is called a know-it-all (and frankly, most people don't like those). Get people talking and pay attention to what they say. Learn by asking about their personal interests. Next time you see that person, you will instantly have a conversation starter that they will enjoy because you listened.

3. Just say yes

Say yes to more things - even if it might be boring, unfamiliar or new. Life is short. Saying yes will open new doors while giving you a positive perspective on life.

"Yes" will help you do interesting activities like exploring. Explore in your free time. An adventurous exploration doesn't have to be extravagant or costly. It could be checking out a local hiking trail, farmers market, street vendor or new food genre.

Never stop learning things. If someone asks you if you'd like to attend a lecture or museum, say yes! Learning new facts, listening to podcasts or reading new materials will help you become an excellent conversationalist; and we all love great a great conversation.

4. Anticipate story time

The most intriguing people have topics to discuss or stories to tell. Before going to a party or group activity, plan ahead so you don't skip a beat. Prepare three to four interesting topics or stories so when the conversation lulls, you've got it covered. Avoid topics that have to do with your career or ones that evoke negative feelings. Don't be boring when telling your story; people like engaging, interesting and funny tales.

5. Be charismatic

Charisma fills a room with energy. The tone of voice and body language you use can draw people in or push them away. Laugh, smile, adapt your voice pitch to the situation, sit on the edge of your seat when others talk and be genuine. Let your actions come naturally. People will be engaged when you are passionate about life.

The most important thing when becoming a likeable person is truly wanting to live an interesting life. Take chances by not always being comfortable. Experience life differently by adding new things. Gain a deeper and genuine understanding for what other people see in the world. Life is incredibly exciting - so get excited and live it to the fullest.