Do you have a meeting or interview at work and want to look serious? Or do you just want to be really serious? Read this article!
Steps
Step 1. Keep your expression neutral
Try not to smile at all, even when you might be friendly and welcoming (e.g. when you meet someone). Also avoid sulking, just stay neutral. Keep a contemplative aspect, neither happy nor sad, but always thoughtful.
Step 2. Avoid humorous or happy thoughts
If you have to think of something sad, do it; you have to do everything possible to focus on what the other person is saying, without laughing. It might be difficult, especially when you're told not to, but it's very important to avoid bursting out laughing at inopportune moments - creating awkward situations.
Step 3. Think about serious and profound topics
It could be anything from politics to environmental protection. If you don't get anything, try watching the news often for inspiration. If possible, try to pick at least one interesting topic - so you can be more inclined to think about it. The longer you do this, the more spontaneously you will feel serious, and the more you will seem like it.
Step 4. Use appropriate language
Don't say too many lines and don't make too many humorous comments - even if you were a genuinely funny person. Serious is the opposite of funny, so avoid making others laugh, no matter how much you like it. The use of formal language and the choice to avoid random arguments could also help.
Step 5. Dress appropriately
Avoid casual or flashy clothing. People who seem more clever are usually seen as serious. Neutral colors such as black, gray or white are ideal. Office clothes, glasses, and briefcases could help you too.
Advice
- Don't be too gruff or obnoxious. You can be serious even without being hateful.
- In the second step, you may find that sad / depressing thoughts (for a short time) increase the chances of success. Do your best to fully focus on these, rather than on what you don't have to think about, otherwise it will be even more difficult to achieve.
Warnings
- Do not overdo it, otherwise you could be mistaken for someone who is too serious, a person with whom it is difficult to get along or simply unpleasant.
- Not laughing at other people's jokes could be rude. In these cases, the “don't laugh” rule does not apply.
- Remember, if you are too serious, you may pass for rude or cruel. Make sure you are still nice.
