Being perceptive is more than just about noticing things. It’s about understanding the subtle cues and behaviours that other people exhibit, often without realizing it themselves.

Hi, I’m Lachlan Brown, the founder of Hack Spirit and a long-time student of mindfulness and Buddhism. I’ve learned that being truly perceptive is an art that requires a mix of intuition, knowledge, and mindfulness.

If you’re able to spot these 8 behaviors in others, you’re not only more perceptive than you might think, but you also have a strong understanding of human nature. And that, my friend, is a powerful skill to have.

The following list will help you sharpen your perceptive skills. So let’s dive right in and see if you recognize these behaviors in the people around you.

1) Observing micro-expressions

In the world of human perception, there’s a phenomenon known as micro-expressions. They’re brief, involuntary facial expressions that occur in response to specific emotions. And guess what? They happen in the blink of an eye—literally.

These expressions are universal, and they can reveal emotions that people might be trying to hide. If you’re able to spot these fleeting signals, you’re more perceptive than you might realize.

In my mindfulness practice, I’ve found that paying attention to these small details can not only help in understanding others better but also aids in cultivating a deeper sense of empathy.

Recognizing micro-expressions isn’t about catching people out or playing detective. It’s about opening up channels of understanding and communication. It’s about noticing the subtleties that many overlook.

2) Noticing the unsaid

The art of perception isn’t just about what people say—it’s also about what they don’t say. And if you have a knack for reading between the lines, you’re more intuitive than you might think.

Throughout my mindfulness journey, I’ve realized that silence can speak volumes. It’s in these quiet moments that people often reveal more about themselves than they do with words.

Thich Nhat Hanh, the renowned Buddhist monk and mindfulness expert, once said, “In true dialogue, both sides are willing to change.” But how can we engage in true dialogue if we’re not attuned to the unspoken?

3) Recognizing impermanence

In Buddhism, one of the key truths we learn is the concept of impermanence—that everything changes and nothing stays the same. This wisdom is not just about understanding life’s transience, but also about recognizing changes in people.

If you’re someone who can spot the subtle shifts in others—whether it’s a change in their mood, behavior, or energy—you’re demonstrating a deep level of perception. You’re seeing the impermanence that is inherent in all things, including people.

This isn’t always easy. In fact, it can be uncomfortable to acknowledge that people change, just as we ourselves do. But this raw honesty is an integral part of being perceptive.

4) Sensing discomfort

Discomfort, in all its forms, can often be a telling sign of something deeper. It’s the body’s way of signaling that something isn’t right. If you’re someone who can sense this discomfort in others, your perception is sharper than you might realize.

Mindfulness teaches us to be present and aware of our own feelings and sensations. But being able to pick up on these signals in others takes this awareness to the next level.

Perhaps you notice a friend fidgeting, a colleague avoiding eye contact, or a loved one’s voice trembling slightly. These are all signals of discomfort that many overlook.

Acknowledging this discomfort isn’t about making assumptions or jumping to conclusions. Instead, it’s about recognizing the signs and offering help or support if needed.

This level of perception requires a raw honesty about the human condition—we all experience discomfort and struggle at times. If you’re able to sense this in others, you’re practicing mindfulness in a profound way.

5) Spotting ego-driven behaviors

The ego is a fascinating aspect of human nature. It can often drive behaviors subconsciously, influencing the way people act and interact. If you’re able to identify when someone’s actions are being driven by their ego, that’s a sign of keen perception.

In my own journey and in writing my book, “Hidden Secrets of Buddhism: How To Live With Maximum Impact and Minimum Ego”, I’ve come to recognize how our egos can sometimes lead us astray.

The ego is all about self-protection and self-promotion. It can manifest as defensiveness, arrogance, or even withdrawal. Recognizing these ego-driven behaviors in others requires a strong understanding of human nature and mindfulness.

So, if you’re someone who can see past the surface and spot these subtle ego-driven behaviors, you’re not only perceptive but also deeply mindful. And if you’re interested in delving deeper into this topic, I invite you to check out my book for more insights.

6) Understanding non-attachment

In both Buddhism and mindfulness, there’s a great emphasis on the principle of non-attachment—letting go of our desire to control outcomes and accepting things as they are.

If you’re someone who can recognize when others are clinging to outcomes or struggling with letting go, you’re displaying a deep level of perception.

This ability to perceive attachment in others is not about judgment. It’s about understanding the universal human struggle with acceptance and surrender. We all grapple with letting go of control, of expectations, and of the illusion that we can shape every aspect of our lives.

Recognizing this struggle in others requires a raw honesty and a deep understanding of this fundamental aspect of Buddhist and mindfulness wisdom.

7) Detecting avoidance

Avoidance is a common human response, often used as a defense mechanism to evade uncomfortable situations or feelings. If you’re someone who can spot when others are avoiding something, your perception is truly fine-tuned.

This ability goes beyond just noticing people dodging a topic in conversation. It’s about recognizing the emotional undercurrents — the fear, the discomfort, the vulnerability — that drive us to avoid certain things.

As Buddhist teacher Pema Chödrön once said, “The most difficult times for many of us are the ones we give ourselves.” Recognizing avoidance in others is a testament to your understanding of this truth.

But remember, spotting avoidance is not about calling people out or making them uncomfortable. It’s about acknowledging their struggle and offering understanding and support. This raw honesty and empathy is what makes you not only perceptive but deeply compassionate.

8) Recognizing presence

Here’s a counterintuitive one: recognizing presence in others. If you’re someone who can spot when another person is genuinely present and engaged, you’re more perceptive than you might think.

In our fast-paced, always-on world, real presence is a rare commodity. We’re often distracted, our minds wandering to the past or the future. But mindfulness teaches us the value of being fully present in the here and now.

When someone is truly present, they listen deeply, respond thoughtfully, and their entire demeanor is different. They’re not reaching for their phone or glancing at the clock. They’re right there with you.

If you can spot this quality in others, it shows that you’re not only perceptive but also deeply attuned to the principles of mindfulness. It means you value presence, both in yourself and in others, and that’s something truly special.

Perception redefined

Perception is not just about seeing; it’s about understanding. If you recognize these behaviors in others, it’s clear that you’re not only observant but also deeply empathetic and mindful.

Remember, being perceptive isn’t about analyzing or judging others. It’s about understanding human nature and using this understanding to foster better relationships and communication.

For those who want to delve deeper into understanding human nature, mindfulness, and how to live with maximum impact and minimum ego, I invite you to read my book, “Hidden Secrets of Buddhism: How To Live With Maximum Impact and Minimum Ego”. It offers insights into how we can navigate our lives with more wisdom, compassion, and mindfulness.

So here’s to your remarkable perception. May it continue to grow and guide you in your journey of understanding the world around you.