There’s a stark difference between being flashy and being genuinely classy.
The difference boils down to subtlety. Flashy behavior is about drawing attention, often without considering the comfort of those around you.
On the other hand, being classy is about respecting yourself and others, often through small but meaningful actions.
Below are 13 things you might be doing publicly that show you’re genuinely classy.
1) You respect personal space
Space is an invisible boundary, but it is a crucial one.
Classy individuals understand the importance of respecting others’ personal space in public settings.
You don’t invade someone’s space, which shows that you’re mindful and considerate, traits of a truly classy person.
Consider public transportation or crowded venues. A classy person wouldn’t encroach on someone else’s seat or stand too close to someone in a queue. You understand that everyone has a right to their bubble and consciously try not to infringe upon it.
Respecting personal space doesn’t mean you have to be aloof or distant. It’s the right balance between being friendly and respecting boundaries.
When you’re in a public setting, pay attention to how you navigate around people. It may be a sign that you’re genuinely classy.
2) You’re always punctual
Time is the one commodity we can’t get back.
Classy individuals understand this and make it a point to always be on time. It’s a sign of respect for other people’s time and commitments.
I remember when I had a lunch meeting with a colleague. Despite a hectic morning, I arrived at the restaurant 10 minutes early.
My colleague was pleasantly surprised and thanked me for being punctual, saying it’s a rarity these days.
That experience taught me that punctuality doesn’t just show your respect for others’ time but also positively impacts them.
You’re not just being polite but showing class when you’re consistently on time.
3) You practice active listening
Active listening is more than just hearing – it’s about understanding and responding thoughtfully.
Classy individuals don’t just wait for their turn to speak; they genuinely engage in the conversation by showing interest in what the other person is saying.
Active listening can be a rare skill in a world where everyone is in a hurry to express their opinions.
By practicing active listening, you build better relationships and demonstrate class and respect towards others.
4) You don’t use your phone excessively
We live in a digital age, where our smartphones have become an extension of ourselves.
A genuinely classy person knows when to put the phone away.
In public settings, constantly checking your phone or scrolling through social media can come off as rude and disinterested. It sends a message that you must be more fully present and engaged in the moment.
Classy individuals understand this and consciously try to limit their phone use, especially when interacting with others.
They value real connections over virtual ones, making those around them feel respected and important.
If you find yourself keeping your phone in your pocket more often than not, you’re already showing signs of being a genuinely classy person.
5) You dress appropriately for every occasion
Dressing appropriately doesn’t mean you have to don the latest fashion trends or wear expensive labels.
A classy individual knows every event has a written or unwritten code and tries to adhere to it.
Be it a formal dinner, a casual outing, or even a quick trip to the grocery store, they ensure their attire is suitable and respectful.
By dressing appropriately, you’re showing self-respect and acknowledging the importance of the event and the people in it.
When you feel good about what you’re wearing, it often boosts confidence. This subtle understanding and respect for others is a telltale sign of a genuinely classy person.
6) You’re gracious in your interactions
Being truly classy goes beyond mere manners – exuding warmth and kindness in all your interactions.
Whether complimenting a stranger on their outfit, thanking the barista for your coffee, or engaging in a thoughtful conversation with an older adult on the bus, these small acts of kindness make a big difference.
Classy individuals understand the power of grace. They know that being kind and respectful doesn’t cost a thing, yet it can brighten someone’s day.
If you find yourself extending kindness and respect to everyone you interact with, irrespective of their status or background, you’re indeed classy.
Your gracious nature reflects the beauty of your character and touches the hearts of those around you.
7) You’re not afraid to admit when you’re wrong
Nobody’s perfect. We all make mistakes. But what separates a classy person from others is their willingness to admit when they’re wrong.
I remember an incident where I unintentionally hurt a friend’s feelings with an offhand comment. When I realized my mistake, instead of brushing it under the carpet, I chose to apologize sincerely.
The experience wasn’t pleasant, but it taught me a valuable lesson about humility and responsibility. Admitting when you’re wrong may make you feel vulnerable, but it also shows your character strength and commitment to personal growth.
Looking past your ego and owning up to your mistakes shows you’re mature and classy.
8) You show your appreciation
Expressing gratitude is not just about saying “thank you.” You acknowledge the efforts of others and make them feel valued.
Classy individuals always take advantage of every opportunity to show appreciation.
Whether complimenting a colleague on their work, thanking a friend for their support, or expressing gratitude to a server for good service, they understand the power of appreciation.
When you express gratitude, you’re not only making someone’s day better, but you’re also exhibiting class and grace.
If you naturally appreciate the good in others, it’s a clear sign that you’re genuinely classy.
9) You respect yourself
At the core of all these actions and behaviors is self-respect.
A truly classy person knows their worth and does not compromise their values for anyone or anything. They treat themselves with kindness and respect, understanding that they set the benchmark for how others should treat them.
Self-respect is not about being arrogant or self-centered. You acknowledge your worth, maintain your dignity, and be true to yourself.
If you respect yourself, it naturally reflects in your interactions with others. That’s the mark of a genuinely classy person.
10) You handle conflicts gracefully
We resolve conflicts or disagreements with diplomacy and tact without causing a public scene.
Classy people know to keep their emotions in check. Take deep breaths, pause, and respond thoughtfully rather than reacting impulsively.
At the same time, they maintain a respectful tone and demeanor. They especially avoid raising their voice, using offensive language, or resorting to personal attacks.
Remember that if you do these things in public, you are classy.
11) You say no to drama
This involves setting boundaries and consciously choosing not to engage in or perpetuate unnecessary conflict or negativity.
Recognize situations or people that tend to bring drama into your life. Awareness is the first step in avoiding unnecessary conflicts.
For example, you often say, “I prefer not to engage in gossip or drama,” or “I’d rather focus on positive things.”
You pick their battles wisely and assess whether it’s worth engaging or better to let it go.
By actively avoiding drama, setting boundaries, and redirecting conversations toward positivity, you can create a more peaceful and harmonious environment for yourself and those around you.
12) You are being mindful of the surroundings
You are aware of noise levels, avoid littering, and generally behave in a way that respects the environment and people around you.
You don’t hold back simply for being mysterious but because you don’t need to prove your life is excellent.
13) You are confident
Confidence could be better than always having the correct answers. You are comfortable with yourself, your abilities, and your decisions, expressing that assurance in your words and actions.
You use positive and assertive language. Avoid phrases that weaken your message, such as “I think” or “I’m not sure.” Instead, you say, “I believe” or “I’m confident.”
Be authentic. Be yourself.
You are open to feedback. Accept constructive criticism gracefully without feeling threatened or defensive.
Confidence comes from being comfortable in your skin and embracing who you are and your flaws. You stay composed in challenging situations and calm in stressful moments, demonstrating confidence.
In short, you are the epitome of class.
Final thought: Respect
The essence of being a genuinely classy person lies in one fundamental principle: respect.
Respect for others, care for the occasion, respect for time, and most importantly, respect for oneself.
Being classy isn’t owning expensive things or having refined tastes. It’s about how you treat people, carry yourself, and respond to the world around you.
The choices you make, the words you use, how you dress, and even your punctuality speak volumes about who you are.
Classiness is a matter of character. It’s being courteous, gracious, and respectful in all situations.
If you identify with these traits and behaviors mentioned in this article, rest assured that you’re on the right path.
After all, being classy is less about what you have and more about who you are.
