Words matter, but what someone says doesn’t always match up with what they mean. These situations happen all the time in romantic relationships. Being able to read body language is so important. However, figuring out someone’s body language isn’t always intuitive. It’s an art and a science.
If you’re dating, body language indicators can help you gauge the other person’s potential interest. Learn more about the signs to look for in a partner when you’re together and what their body language really says.
Leaning Toward or Away From You
We tend to lean toward people when we’re interested in them. When we’re less engaged in a conversation or feel uncomfortable, we tend to lean back.
When you and your partner are talking, notice if they’re pulling away physically. If you make a subtle move to lean toward them, do they lean toward you? Or do they lean away? Even a slight shift can indicate interest level.
Using Micro-Expressions
Most of us know how to put on a “fake” smile. But guess what? Our mouths and eyes will almost always betray our true feelings with micro-expressions.
A micro-expression occurs in the split second after hearing something. It’s a fast expression that shows a person’s honest emotion. For instance, if your date seems to be uninterested for a moment and then flashes a wide grin — maybe too wide — they might not be invested in the experience.
Making Eye Contact
It’s worth noting that not everyone is okay with eye contact, even when they know someone well. Therefore, eye contact is not necessarily a “make it or break it” sign of romantic interest.
With that being said, if your date makes eye contact with other people, they should be able to make eye contact with you. Little or no eye contact usually reveals a lack of deeper interest.
A Final Note on Dating Body Language
During a date, your anxiety and related stressful feelings may run high. Being able to read your own body language can help you understand it in others. When you’re with someone you’re attracted to, see how you hold your body. Then notice if your date is mirroring your body language or doing something else. Treat the date as a little experiment as much as a chance to get to know another person!
In time, you’ll find that reading body language gets much easier, especially if you work on your body language-reading skills with your therapist. But figuring out what to wear or order off the menu? You’re on your own for that!
