Navigating social situations isn’t always easy. What you say is important, but how you act can speak volumes too.

Body language is a subtle form of communication that often reveals more than words. It can portray confidence, interest, or even intelligence. But what about the opposite?

Psychology tells us there are certain body language habits that may signal low social intelligence. These are the unconscious cues that could be sabotaging your interactions without you even realizing it.

In the next few paragraphs, I’ll share 8 body language habits that might be giving off the wrong impression. So let’s dive in and see what your body language might be saying about you.

1) Avoiding eye contact

Eye contact is a critical component of human communication. It signals engagement, interest, and attentiveness. But what happens when eye contact is avoided?

Psychologists view consistent eye contact avoidance as a potential sign of low social intelligence. It can signal discomfort, disinterest, or even dishonesty to the person you’re communicating with.

It’s worth noting that cultural norms can influence eye contact habits too. And yes, too much eye contact can also be seen as aggressive or intrusive. But generally, avoiding eye contact during conversations is a body language habit that can negatively impact your social interactions.

So next time you’re in a conversation, remember to look the other person in the eye. Just don’t stare. That’s a whole other issue.

2) Crossing arms

Remember back in middle school when I’d cross my arms during parent-teacher meetings? What I didn’t realize back then was that this seemingly innocent gesture could be interpreted as a sign of resistance or defensiveness.

Crossing your arms might feel comfortable, especially when you’re feeling a bit unsure or nervous. But it’s a body language habit that can signal low social intelligence.

This closed-off posture can create an invisible barrier between you and the person you’re communicating with. It can give off an impression of being unapproachable or not open to what others have to say.

Over time, I’ve learned to keep my arms at my sides or use them to naturally gesture while talking. It’s a small change that has made a big difference in my interactions. So, trust me on this one – uncross those arms!

3) Fidgeting

Ever notice how some people can’t seem to sit still during a conversation? They’re constantly tapping their foot, playing with their hair, or shifting in their seat. While this might just be a nervous habit for some, it can also signal low social intelligence.

Fidgeting can be disruptive, distracting, and convey a lack of focus or anxiety. It’s also an indicator of restlessness or impatience, which suggests you’re not fully engaged in the conversation at hand.

Here’s something to think about: A study found that excessive fidgeting can actually decrease your credibility and persuasiveness during communication. So if you find yourself starting to fidget, take a deep breath and try to relax. Your social interactions will thank you.

4) Lack of facial expressions

Facial expressions are a universal language. They convey emotions, reactions, and sentiments without uttering a single word. But what if your face remains expressionless during interactions?

A lack of facial expressions can signal low social intelligence. It can make you seem detached, uninterested, or even uncaring. This can create a barrier in communication, making it hard for others to connect with you or gauge your reactions.

An active and engaged facial expression not only shows that you’re present and interested, but it also helps to build rapport and trust with the person you’re communicating with. So next time you’re in a conversation, don’t forget to let your face do some talking too.

5) Invasion of personal space

There’s a certain comfort zone we all have, an invisible boundary that marks our personal space. When someone steps into this space uninvited, it can feel intrusive and uncomfortable.

Invasion of personal space is a body language habit that signals low social intelligence. It shows a lack of understanding or disregard for personal boundaries, which can make others feel uneasy or defensive.

We all need to respect each other’s personal space. It’s about empathy and understanding, acknowledging that everyone has their comfort zone. Remember, successful social interactions aren’t just about what you say or do, but also about respecting the space of others.

6) Lack of nodding

There was a time when I struggled to make others feel heard during conversations. It wasn’t that I wasn’t listening, but something was missing. It wasn’t until a close friend pointed it out that I realized what it was – I wasn’t nodding.

Nodding is more than just a simple head movement. It’s a clear, non-verbal way to show that you’re actively listening and understanding what’s being said. A lack of nodding can signal low social intelligence as it can make the speaker feel unheard or ignored.

Since then, I’ve made a conscious effort to nod during conversations, and it has made a noticeable difference. People seem more open and responsive, leading to more meaningful and engaging interactions.

7) Avoiding physical contact

Physical contact like a handshake, a pat on the back, or a friendly hug can be a powerful way to connect with others. But what happens when you avoid these actions?

Avoiding physical contact can signal low social intelligence. It may make you seem distant or unapproachable, creating an invisible wall between you and those around you.

Now, it’s crucial to understand that not everyone is comfortable with physical contact, and that’s okay. It’s about finding the right balance and being aware of others’ comfort levels. A firm handshake or a friendly pat on the back can go a long way in building strong social connections.

8) Looking at your phone

These days our phones are almost an extension of ourselves. But here’s the deal: Constantly checking your phone during conversations is a body language habit that signals low social intelligence.

When you’re glued to your phone, you’re sending a message that your device is more important than the person you’re with. It can come off as disrespectful, disinterested, or even rude.

The most meaningful and engaging conversations happen when we’re fully present. So put your phone away. The messages and notifications can wait. The person in front of you deserves your full attention.