We all know the stereotype.

Reserved, elusive, subdued, and unapologetically aloof. 

Let’s just say, introverts have a reputation for being less than forthright, particularly when it comes to expressing how they truly feel. 

As an introvert myself, I can attest to that.

But just because we don’t say it, doesn’t mean we don’t care. We sometimes just prefer a more low-key approach (compared to our extroverted counterparts). 

Remember the old saying: “Actions speak louder than words.”

It’s true!

With introverts especially, it’s better to focus on what they do (rather than what they say).

With that being said.

If you spot these seven behaviors in someone you know, it could mean that they want to be more than just friends.

1) They talk (I mean really talk) to you

If you had to describe an introvert in one word, what’s the first thing that comes to mind?

Go on, take a guess.

I bet the last thing you’d say is talkative. But around you, they can’t stop yapping. 

That’s right. 

You bring out their inner chatterbox, even if that means engaging in undesirable small talk. 

Sure, it makes them a little uncomfortable and it’s definitely pushing them past their usual limits. But for you, they’ll happily engage in conversation for hours. 

The time just flies by.

It’s easy when you have deep feelings for someone. 

2) They love to hear you speak 

That said, they’ll gladly hold their tongue if it means they get to hear you speak.  

The truth is, introverts are amazing listeners. 

It’s called active listening, a communication skill that requires giving the speaker their undivided attention and being fully present. 

But that’s not all. 

It also involves showing an interest, asking related (and open-ended) questions, noticing (and using) non-verbal cues, paraphrasing, reacting accordingly, and (most importantly), withholding judgment.

Made all the more meaningful when they have deep feelings for someone. 

They genuinely want to get to know you, learn what makes you tick, and strengthen that connection. 

Look at it as a sign that they want to support you and your life goals.

3) They are themselves around you (even if that means silence)

We’ve all been there.

When you first meet someone new, you tend to put on an act.

After all, first impressions count.

This is especially true in new romantic relationships. You’re on your best behavior and want to be seen as that super cool guy or gal who’s up for anything.

Dating coach Persia Lawson summarizes it as trying to perform rather than being your authentic self.

Extremely introverted individuals can be the exception.

They find it exhausting to put on any kind of act, so are generally themselves from the outset.

And a big part of their authentic self is silence.

Extroverts cringe at the thought of silence. It makes them feel awkward and may even prompt them to fill the air with nervous humor or pointless statements. Anything to avoid the dreaded silence!

Introverts on the other hand are comfortable with silence. It’s where they feel at home. 

If they’re happy to sit in silence with you, look at it as a sign of intimacy and connection.

In fact, the strongest relationships are those where we feel totally comfortable simply being in each other’s company and saying nothing.

4) They remember the little things

Introverts have a superpower.

They’re incredibly perceptive. They pick up on all the small details.

While extroverts are more concerned with making people laugh or telling riveting stories, introverts are patiently observing the world around them.

This means they’re great at remembering small details about you.

I’m talking about your favorite movie, what you like to eat, or even what you wore on your first date together.

This superpower allows them to make thoughtful gestures.

It might not be the most dramatic gift or the loudest announcement, but it’ll have plenty of meaning behind it.

And it’s a slamsunk sign that they’re smitten with you.

5) They actually open up (relatively speaking)

I know. I said introverts are usually closed books.

Which they generally are!

But it’s all relative. Let me explain.

It’s about identifying a baseline behavior and noticing if they act differently around you.

For example, let’s say they’re super reserved around other people and never talk about personal issues, family matters, or deep-rooted beliefs. 

But around you, one-on-one, they open up (just slightly).

Well, look at that as a big win.

Here’s the thing.

When introverts have strong feelings for someone they can drop their guard.

If you’re having (relatively) meaningful conversations or sharing personal vulnerabilities, it’s a clear giveaway.

6) They make time for you (no matter what)

Introverts value their time.

After all, socializing can be mentally and physically draining for them.

They certainly wouldn’t want to spend time with someone (and waste their energy) without a genuine reason.

Think about it.

If they’re always there when you need them (and they seldom refuse an invite), chances are they have strong feelings for you.

Introverts prioritize meaningful interactions with people they care about, rather than just making superficial appearances.

In other words, they go for quality over quantity.

It doesn’t have to be an extravagant event or expensive gig either. A quiet evening at home eating pizza is a strong indication of their affection.

7) They make plans with you

One thing most introverts have in common is their introspective personality. They love to reflect and make long-term plans.

If they’re involving you in those plans, it means something (trust me).

Whether it’s a short vacation or something more serious like moving in together, it’s a clear sign they see you as a permanent fixture in their lives.

It’s not just the big life-changing decisions either. 

They may also be keen to introduce you to important people in their lives.

I’m talking about close family and best friends.

Watch out for telltale clues, like proactively pushing you to spend time with people they care about.