Ah, the mysterious French phrase je ne sais quoi , which literally means “I dont know what,” connotes a personal magic that certain people just seem to have more of than others. It’s true that this magnetic quality (usually associated with French women) can get a person noticed and often brings success, but you don’t have to be famous, wealthy, young or beautiful to possess it.
We come across people with “je ne sais quoi” every day – from the charming waiter to the friendly person at the newsstand. They have the ability to simply touch our lives with their charm, generosity of spirit and warmth – people who, with the most simple gesture, leave a dazzling mark on us and others.
It’s true, you-know-it-when-you-see-it, but je ne sais quoi isn’t really as mysterious as most people think. It’s something we all have – the potential for greatness in a particular moment that involves a human exchange.
We come across people with “je ne sais quoi” every day – from the charming waiter to the friendly person at the newsstand. They have the ability to simply touch our lives with their charm, generosity of spirit and warmth – people who, with the most simple gesture, leave a dazzling mark on us and others.
It’s true, you-know-it-when-you-see-it, but je ne sais quoi isn’t really as mysterious as most people think. It’s something we all have – the potential for greatness in a particular moment that involves a human exchange. (By greatness we don’t mean power, money or success because so many people have those things, yet still don’t manifest this factor.)≠ People with it don’t set out to be charismatic, they set out to be the best they can be with the talents they have≠. Their desire keeps them growing and learning, which also has the effect of making them more interesting people. People who manifest je ne sais quoi have tapped into their potential, either consciously or unconsciously.
It’s important to keep in mind, we can all have this quality in our own time. Some discover it early in life – usually by knowing what they are good at and what makes them happy. Others come to it later. We all have our own pace on this journey, which is why it’s so important to approach life with as many qualities that lead to je ne sais quoi as possible.
Sense of humor
If you can make people laugh, you’re more likely to win them over.
Poise and posture
We’ve all heard the expressions, “She’s sure on her feet” and “He’s got his feet firmly planted on the ground.” The simple fact of the matter is that being comfortable in your own shoes puts others at ease.
Passion in the present
If you are passionate about the present moment, others will be too. Practice being in the moment, even if in this moment you are just washing dishes or reading this article.
Listen and learn
Expressing sincere interest in others and listening to what they have to say is the best way to spark conversation. In addition, nurturing your own curious nature by trying new foods, reading new books and meeting new people will keep others sincerely interested in you!
Remember, having je ne sais quoi is simply planting the seeds of possibility, wherever you go and whatever you do.
