Everyone likes to be liked. That’s just human nature.
Whether it’s by your colleagues at work, friends old and new, or the hot Tinder match you’re going on a second date with, being liked is a natural desire that can be traced all the way back to our beginnings on this Earth.
This feeling not only derives from our need to belong – in ancient times, being accepted (see: liked) by a social group was a non-negotiable survival mechanism – but it’s also essential for our mental health.
Knowing you are well-liked by your peers boosts self-esteem, makes people feel worthy (note that your worth is not defined by this, nor is it measured by the opinion of others), and generally provides a feeling of contentment. And, as social beings, being connected is an important part of our existence.
But if you’ve ever been curious about how to recognise the signs that someone likes you, you couldn’t have come to a better place.
We spoke to Dr Elena Touroni, a consultant psychologist and co-founder of The Chelsea Psychology Clinic, who shared her knowledge on the subject.
1. They initiate contact and communication
‘When someone likes you, they often go out of their way to initiate conversations and maintain contact,’ Dr Touroni explains, adding that this behaviour ‘demonstrates a genuine interest in you and a desire to build a connection.’
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From a psychological perspective, she notes how ‘consistent communication is a key indicator of someone’s investment in a relationship, whether it’s a friendship, a work connection, or a romantic interest’.
2. They remember and acknowledge details about you
There’s no better feeling than when a person remembers an obscure fact about you that you told them on a random Tuesday.
According to Dr Touroni, paying attention to small details about your life and remembering things you’ve shared ‘indicates that the person values you.’
She continues: ‘This could be remembering your favourite coffee order, asking about your recent trip, or recalling past conversations. Such attentiveness shows that they are not only listening but also care enough to retain information about you, which is a clear sign of affection and appreciation’.
3. They offer help and support
Dr Touroni suggests that when a person likes you, they’re often willing to offer help and support without being asked.
Maybe they help out with a project at work or simply offer a listening ear. Or, maybe they’ll have no qualms about dropping everything to babysit your kids on a Friday night so you can arrange that second date, if it’s a friend.
Psychologically, ‘this behaviour is rooted in empathy and the desire to be seen as dependable and caring, reinforcing their commitment to your well-being,’ she expands.
4. They make time for you
In today’s fast-paced, modern society, where we’re all juggling work, finances, social lives and prioritising our own well-being, a person’s time is an incredibly valuable resource.
So, when someone prioritises spending time with you, it’s a surefire sign that they like you, says Dr Touroni.
‘Whether it’s making plans to hang out, joining you for lunch, or scheduling regular catch-ups, these actions signify that they enjoy your company and want to strengthen the bond you share” (Picture: Getty Images) ‘.
5. They exhibit positive body language
It’s not just what a person says that can indicate whether they like you or not. Non-verbal cues can also be very telling.
‘Someone who likes you will often display open and positive body language, such as making eye contact, leaning in during conversations, and smiling frequently,’ explains Dr Touroni.
Additionally, these behaviours ‘signal interest and comfort, indicating that the person feels at ease around you and is genuinely happy to be in your presence.’
Plus, psychological studies suggest that positive body language fosters connection and trust, further highlighting their favourable feelings towards you
6. They compliment and praise you
‘Compliments and words of praise are direct expressions of admiration and liking,’ shares Dr Touroni.
So, when someone goes out of their way to acknowledge your achievements, appearance, or qualities, it shows that they appreciate and respect you.
From a psychological standpoint, she says that giving compliments is a way of ‘reinforcing positive interactions and building a stronger relationship’, be it in a social, professional, or romantic context.
7. They share personal information
Now, we’re not saying that someone has to give you their bank details and national insurance number to prove that they like you.
What we are saying is that sharing personal stories and opening up about one’s life is a sign of trust and intimacy.
Dr Touroni concludes: ‘When someone likes you, they are more likely to share their thoughts, feelings, and experiences, inviting you into their personal world.
This level of openness indicates a desire to deepen the connection and create a more meaningful relationship’.
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