There are lots of ways that having a crush in the early stages can be really fun and invigorating. However, it can also be frustrating when you aren’t quite sure that they feel the same way about you. Maybe there are some mixed signals or controversial glances stolen across the room, but neither of you knows whether to make the first move or not. This is especially true if the object of your affection is shy because shy people generally won’t declare their undying love for you in a huge public gesture. Here’s how to spot easy-to-miss signs a shy guy likes you.
- You catch him looking at you. He does it for a long time too, often with longing in his eyes and hope afire in his breast. You only know that he was looking because of course you were looking in the first place, but it’s nice to know the feeling is mutual. Apparently mutual, anyway. A shy guy won’t necessarily act on these impulses, so make sure you’re prepared to make the first move or at least keep tabs on the glances. When shy people like someone, they don’t want to show all their cards at once. They play things close to their chest. You have to be astute and know them well to see how they operate and express their emotions. Only then will you be able to notice the signs a shy guy likes you.
- He gives you thoughtful presents. Or, maybe he makes nice gestures without thinking about it. Other people will just think that flowers and chocolate are all women want, but a shy guy knows different. What he lacks in social skills he makes up for in actually listening to you when you talk. Most people just think about what they’re going to say in response to their crush when they’re talking, but a shy guy will actually focus on what you’re saying. He’ll treat you right, but the signs are easy-to-miss. Pay attention in return.
- He gives unexpected compliments. Just like with his presents, he doesn’t focus on big public gestures but instead prefers the more intimate, powerful moments. These are the things that bind you. They forge new connections. Unexpected compliments are a great sign that someone likes you. It shows that you occupy space in their mind and that they think of you often. You also won’t just get compliments on your physical appearance or body from this guy. The more thoughtful compliments are about your personality or the way you treat people. They’re less shallow.
- He seems stressed around you. Does it seem like, when you talk to them, he’d rather be anywhere else than talking to you? It’s likely not because he doesn’t like you. Quite the opposite in fact. I would wager good money that you make him nervous because he wants to impress you but can’t form the right words in the right way. Just give him time and space and try to consider why he might be acting weird. There’s a certain way to flirt with a shy guy without scaring him off that you will have to learn too.
- He avoids you. This is a bit like the previous point. If social interaction scares some shy people, it makes sense that he would try to avoid it. Yes, this is true even if he knows that he wants to pursue a relationship with you. It’s hard to reconcile those two facts. Eventually, though, he’ll get in control of his emotions and will learn that if he wants to get to know you more, he has to be bold. Have courage.
- You sense mixed signals. This ties up in the previous point too. Does he seem inconsistent? Blowing hot and cold? Disinterested one day and up in your business the next? Don’t dismiss him because he’s probably just figuring out how to approach you. Being in a relationship is a learned skill, not an innate gift. Remember that.
- You sense a connection. Do you feel it in your gut that there’s something between you? That’s probably one of the biggest signs that a shy guy likes you (or anyone at all likes you, that is), but you have to trust it. Of course, you also have to read the room to make sure you’re not just building things up in your head.
- He researches your favorite things. And he puts in the effort. He knows that he has to. Other guys can rely on confidence and bravado to get them places, but it only covers their insecurities. That’s where shy guys are more authentic and more emotionally available because their lives aren’t a performance.
