Cracking the code of human behavior can feel like deciphering a complex mystery. Especially when it comes to figuring out if someone secretly likes you.

It’s not always about the words they say; it’s often the little things they do that give them away.

And guess what? There are certain behaviors that act as telltale signs.

Let’s get started.

1) They’re always around

Do you ever get the feeling that someone is always just…there? You look up from your desk, and they’re in the hallway. You head to the coffee machine, and they’re there too. It’s like they have a sixth sense for where you are.

Well, it might not be a coincidence.

People naturally gravitate towards those they like. It’s a subconscious behavior that can be traced back to our primal instincts. We want to be near those who make us feel good, comfortable, and safe.

2) They remember the little details

Let me share a personal story to illustrate this point.

A couple of years ago, I was getting to know a new colleague at work. We’d often chat about our weekend plans, hobbies, even our favorite foods. One day, I casually mentioned how I loved this obscure band from the ’80s.

Fast forward to a few weeks later, and she surprised me with a vintage record from that band. It was such a small detail from our conversations, but she remembered it.

If someone is remembering the tiny pieces of information you share, it could mean they’re paying more attention to you than you realize. They’re interested in you, and they care about what you have to say.

In my case, it turns out my colleague did have a secret crush on me. She was picking up on the little things because she liked me.

3) They mimic your gestures

Did you know that when we like someone, we often subconsciously mimic their gestures and body language? It’s a subtle form of flattery that’s hardwired into our brains.

If you notice someone mirroring your actions – whether it’s the way you cross your arms, the expressions you make, or even how you laugh – it could be a sign they secretly like you. It’s their subconscious way of saying, “I feel connected to you.”

When you’re with this person, take note of their body language. If it mirrors yours, it might be their secret way of expressing their feelings.

4) They tease you a lot

Remember those schoolyard crushes where the boy would pull the girl’s pigtails or the girl would make fun of the boy, and it was all because they liked each other? Well, this behavior doesn’t necessarily stop as we get older.

If someone is constantly teasing you or joking around with you, it could be a sign that they secretly like you. Teasing is often a playful way of getting attention and creating a unique bond.

But remember, it’s important that the teasing is light-hearted and not hurtful. If it crosses into bullying or disrespect, that’s a different story entirely.

5) They give you meaningful compliments

Compliments are nice, aren’t they? But there’s a difference between a generic “you look nice today” and a more thoughtful “I admire the way you handled that situation”.

If someone is giving you compliments that are specific and meaningful, it could be a sign they secretly like you. They’re paying attention to your actions, your character, and your values. And they like what they see.

When you receive a compliment, pay attention to what it’s about. If it’s about something deeper than just surface-level appearances, it could be a clue to their hidden feelings.

6) They care about your well-being

One of the most heartfelt signs that someone secretly likes you is that they genuinely care about your well-being.

It’s in the way they ask if you got home safe after a night out. The way they notice when you’re feeling down and do their best to cheer you up. Or the way they remember about your big presentation and wish you luck.

When someone truly cares about you, it shows in their actions and words. They want to make sure you’re okay, not because they have to, but because they want to.

It’s a beautiful thing when someone values your happiness as much as their own. And if you notice this behavior in someone, it could be a sign they’re harboring secret feelings for you.

7) They open up to you

I’ll never forget when a friend of mine started sharing more about his life with me. He’d talk about his dreams, his fears, and even his family troubles. At first, I thought he just needed someone to talk to. But later, I realized it was his way of showing that he trusted me and felt close to me.

When someone starts opening up and sharing deeper parts of their life with you, it could be a sign they secretly like you. They’re letting you in on their vulnerabilities and showing you a side of them that not many people see.

8) They argue with you

Now, this might seem a bit odd, but hear me out. If someone tends to argue with you or challenge your opinions, it might not be a sign of animosity. In fact, it could be a sign they secretly like you.

Why? Because it shows they value your opinion enough to engage with it. They’re not just passively agreeing with everything you say. Instead, they’re taking the time to understand your perspective and discuss it, even if it leads to a disagreement.

Of course, this doesn’t include constant bickering or mean-spirited arguments. It’s about those healthy debates where both parties respect each other’s viewpoints.

9) They notice changes in your appearance

Ever change something about your appearance – maybe a new haircut, a different style of clothing, or even a subtle change in your makeup – and someone immediately notices? It’s a nice feeling, right?

When someone is paying close attention to your appearance, it could be a sign they secretly like you. They’re tuned into the details about you and notice when something changes.

10) Their body language is open towards you

Above all, one of the most reliable signs that someone secretly likes you is their body language. When we like someone, we naturally orient our bodies towards them. It’s our subconscious way of showing interest and connection.

If you notice someone consistently facing you during conversations, making eye contact, and leaning in when you speak, it could be a signal they’re attracted to you.