Navigating the social landscape can be a tricky endeavor. Sometimes, people act friendly towards you but in reality, they’re just pretending. It’s a hard truth to swallow.

Spotting these pretenders isn’t always easy. They’re usually quite subtle in their behaviors. But thankfully, there are some telltale signs that can help you identify if someone is genuinely fond of you or simply putting on an act.

In the following article, I’ll reveal 8 subtle behaviors that usually indicate someone is only pretending to like you. Keep an eye out for these signs – they could save you from a lot of heartache down the line.

1) Overly enthusiastic

It’s a common occurrence in our everyday interactions – people acting more excited or enthusiastic around you than the situation warrants.

This excessive show of enthusiasm is often a mask to hide their true feelings. Those who are pretending to like you might overcompensate by going overboard with their reactions. They’ll laugh a little too hard at your jokes, or show too much interest in your stories.

It’s like they’re trying too hard to convince you (and themselves) that they genuinely like you. But remember, genuine affection and interest don’t need such exaggerated displays.

So next time you notice someone being overly enthusiastic around you, consider it a red flag – they might just be pretending to like you.

2) They never initiate contact

This one hit close to home for me. I had a friend, let’s call her Jane, who was always friendly when we met. But, I noticed a pattern – I was always the one reaching out, making plans and initiating conversations.

Jane never texted first or suggested we hang out. It seemed like she was okay with our friendship, but only when it was convenient for her.

It was a tough realization, but it made me understand that if a person truly likes you, they’ll make an effort to connect with you. They won’t wait for you to take the first step every time.

So, if you find yourself always being the one to reach out, you might want to reconsider their intentions. They could just be pretending to like you.

3) They’re always too busy

We live in a fast-paced world. Everyone seems to be juggling multiple tasks at once. But when it comes to relationships, people make time for those they genuinely care about.

If someone is always too busy to spend time with you, it’s a clear indication that you’re not a priority to them. The “too busy” excuse is a classic way for people to distance themselves without appearing rude or unfriendly.

Interestingly, how we perceive our time often affects our willingness to commit to social engagements. Those who value their time highly are less likely to spend it on relationships they deem unimportant.

So if someone consistently claims they’re too busy, they might just be pretending to like you.

4) They rarely share personal details

One of the hallmarks of a genuine, close relationship is the sharing of personal details. It’s a sign of trust and intimacy when someone opens up to you about their thoughts, feelings or experiences.

However, if someone is only pretending to like you, they’ll often keep conversations surface level. They might chat about the weather, work, or current events, but they’ll steer clear from personal topics.

This reluctance to share is a way to keep you at arm’s length. After all, the less you know about them, the easier it is for them to maintain their pretense.

So if someone keeps their personal life under wraps around you, it could be a sign they’re not as fond of you as they claim to be.

5) They don’t remember the little things

There’s something heartwarming about someone remembering the small details you’ve shared with them. It shows that they value your conversations and care about you.

I recall a dear friend who would always remember the little things – my favorite book, the story I told about my childhood pet, even my coffee order. These might seem insignificant, but to me, it was a clear sign of their genuine affection.

On the contrary, if someone is constantly forgetting these details, it could indicate that they’re not truly invested in the relationship. They might nod and smile as you speak, but if they’re not retaining any of it, chances are they’re just pretending to like you.

So pay attention to those who remember the little things – they’re the ones who truly care.

6) They avoid eye contact

Eye contact is a powerful form of nonverbal communication. It can convey interest, attention, and sincerity. But when someone is pretending to like you, they might avoid meeting your gaze.

I remember a time when I was talking to a colleague. His eyes would constantly dart around the room instead of focusing on me. It was as if he was looking for an escape route from our conversation.

This avoidance of eye contact made me feel uncomfortable and unimportant. It was a clear indicator that he wasn’t genuinely interested in what I had to say.

So if you notice someone avoiding your gaze while you’re talking to them, it might be because they’re just pretending to like you.

7) Their body language is closed off

Body language is a silent form of communication that often reveals more than words. When someone genuinely likes you, their body language will be open and inviting. They’ll face you directly, lean in when you’re talking, and their arms will be relaxed by their sides.

However, if someone is pretending to like you, their body language will tell a different story. They might cross their arms, turn their body away from you, or maintain a greater than normal distance. These are all signs of discomfort and disinterest.

Remember, actions speak louder than words. If someone’s body language seems closed off, they might be pretending to like you.

8) They never reciprocate

The golden rule of any relationship is reciprocity. Whether it’s sharing personal stories, showing emotional support, or simply spending time together – there should always be a give and take.

If you find that you’re always the one giving – sharing your thoughts, being there for them, making efforts to stay connected – but not receiving the same in return, that’s a clear sign of imbalance.

In a genuine relationship, both parties are invested equally. If someone is only receiving but never giving, it’s likely they’re pretending to like you. This lack of reciprocity is not just unfair, it’s emotionally draining. You deserve better.