by Matt Bird

Created on: September 13, 2009

As anybody who's ever held a flame for another (that'd be the majority of you, I'm sure) can attest, there are few things more annoying than wondering whether or not the object of your affections likes you back. Every little nervous tic or gesture they make is carefully studied, yet each one just seems to add up to more confusion. It'd be nice if plucking petals off flowers and saying 'she loves me, she loves me not' really did work, as you'd at least be certain of the outcome.

Life isn't so simple, however, as thus those with fire burning in their hearts must still try and decipher the body language and actions of those they like. Fear not, however, as there ARE some signs that they might just like you back. See enough of them and it's probably time to ask them out.

1.) They smile at you. Simple as that. You make them feel good when you're around. I'm not talking a strained, indulgent smile, either, but an honest-to-god uncontrollable grin that just won't vanish from their face. You can make their bad days turn good again in a heartbeat.

2.) They maintain eye contact at all times, usually in conjunction with the smile. People who don't have much regard for you will avoid your eyes, especially if you make them nervous or otherwise uncomfortable. That said, you may be making them nervous because they like you, as well, so don't instantly dismiss those who look away shyly.

3.) They touch you. It doesn't need to be constant physical contact, but just little brushes and back pats. If they stroke your arm then you're probably good to go.

4.) They allow you to touch them. They won't flinch away and will happily allow prolonged physical contact. Most people instinctively move away from a foot that gets too close, so if that DOESN'T happen they may just fancy you.

5.) They laugh at everything you say. Most jokes coming out of your mouth will probably be horribly lame, but if somebody likes you they'll chuckle anyway.

6.) They'll happily make plans with you whenever you like. Pick a day and they'll do whatever they can to accommodate you. If they lack interest they'll blow you off completely, which should be enough to warn you off the trail for good.

7.) They'll start to appear wherever you go. Not necessarily in a stalker-ish sense, but they'll learn your timetable and mysteriously begin popping up along your route. The more you see a person outside the usual places the better your chances.

8.) They become inquisitive. They'll ask all about you, down to the most trivial details. If you really like them back then return the favor as amply as possible.

9.) They attempt to share your interests whenever possible. If you like movies, they'll suddenly share your passion. They're trying to engage you and spend time with you by doing this, so don't hold back. (It can't hurt to discover some of their hobbies, as well. Relationships are all about give and take, after all.)

10.) And last, they look fancied-up every time you see them. You could be going out for a coffee but they'll still try to appear spic and span. Their hair will be tidy, their clothes unblemished and stylish, their skin gleaming like a baby. This part applies more to females than males, I've noticed, though plenty of men will go to great lengths to impress a lady as well.

All of these signs can work in reverse, as well. If you want to show somebody you care for them beyond the norm, spruce yourself up. Laugh at their jokes. Ask lots of questions. Maintain eye contact and experiment with your touching. With a bit of effort tou may just have a new boyfriend or girlfriend in the near future.

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