Conversely, some people are uncomfortable with eye contact. If you know he’s shy, don’t be discouraged; there are other signs that he might like you. If you’re nervous, ask him a question so you have an excuse to make eye contact. You could say, “How far are you on last week’s assignment?” or “Do you know what the cafeteria is serving today?”
Look at how he smiles at other people, too. Does he act that way with everyone, or does he seem especially happy to see you?
Only check once or twice each time you’re around him. If you glance at him often, he may think you’re staring at him. Alternatively, ask a friend you trust to check and see if he’s looking at you. They can steal a glance and report back to you.
Try turning your head to look at a window or an object in the room. Does he do the same? A guy with a crush might also look where you look because he’s hyperaware of your movements.
He also won’t pull away when you enter his personal space. He’ll encourage small touches and even lean into them if he likes you! If a guy ever touches you in a way you don’t like, remember that you can always tell him to stop because it makes you uncomfortable. Get someone you trust to help if he won’t listen.
For instance, he might suddenly give short or yes/no answers when he normally likes to talk. Similarly, he might stutter or forget what he wanted to say. Look for other nervous ticks, too. He might crack his knuckles, scratch his head, or fidget as a sign of nerves while talking to you.
For example, he might sit next to you in class and say, “How’s it going?” or “How did you do on the last test?” Alternatively, he may text you out of the blue on a Saturday night and say, “What are you up to?” or “You busy tomorrow? I thought we could do something!”
For example, he might show up at your favorite cafe or arcade because he knows you like it there. If you’re both at a party, he’ll be there as long as you are—even if other friends leave first. He might even offer to walk or drive you home. He’ll also try getting to know your friends. Since he likes you, he wants your friends to like him too!
He might ask questions like, “What do you do in your free time?” “What are your favorite bands?” “Do you have any pets?” or “How many siblings do you have?” Ask him questions, too! If he’s showing interest, exchanging questions is a great way to learn more about one another and strengthen your bond.
In fact, your guy might even drop hints that he’s single. Comments about his relationship status like, “I’m still looking for the right person,” or “I’m still flying solo” signal his availability.
For example, if you change your hairstyle, your guy will be the first to notice and say, “Wow, you’re looking amazing today!” Try complimenting him, too! He might give other compliments about your looks, like, “Those glasses look cool!” or “I like that band t-shirt. Where’d you get it?” He’ll also compliment deeper things like intellect and talents. He might say, “You’re so smart! I don’t know anyone who reads as fast as you,” or “You’re definitely the best flute player in band, you know. "
For example, he might help you with your homework, offer to carry your stuff, or offer to fix your car. Similarly, he might give you advice when you’re unsure about something or offer a shoulder to cry on when you’re going through a hard time.
You’ll also notice that he remembers your answers. He might buy your favorite snack for you out of the blue or ask to borrow a book you mentioned liking to prove that he listens to you. Does he remember something you told him long after you forget mentioning it? It’s a big sign that he likes you when he does that.
When a guy likes you, he’ll also show you that he took your advice. For example, he might show up the next day wearing whatever shirt you picked or rave about the excellent book you recommended.
He might ask, “Who’s Matt?” “How long have you known Matt?” “What does Matt do?” or “Do you and Matt hang out often?” If you’re interested in dating this guy, handle the jealousy and tell him that your friend is just a friend, not someone you’re interested in dating. Otherwise, he might think you’re dating someone else.
For instance, he might respond to a text immediately (or within a few minutes). If his reply takes longer than 10 minutes, he might add, “Sorry for the delay. I’m working right now!” Remember that it’s normal to encounter a delay in responses during work and school hours. He’ll also send texts casually checking in and asking you how you’re doing; it’s his way of staying closely in touch with you.