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If someone dislikes you without saying it, they'll usually display these 8 subtle behaviors

Ever sense someone pulling away but can’t pinpoint why? They may be giving off hidden hints. Discover eight subtle signs they might not like you—and learn to spot them fast.

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Ever sense someone pulling away but can’t pinpoint why? They may be giving off hidden hints. Discover eight subtle signs they might not like you—and learn to spot them fast.

Reading people isn't always easy. Sometimes, someone might not be too fond of you, but they won't say it outright.

Instead, they tend to show it through subtle behaviors that speak volumes about their feelings towards you.

This can be a little tough to figure out, I know. But there are certain behaviors that are dead giveaways.

In this piece, I'll share with you 8 subtle behaviors that usually indicate someone may not like you much, even if they're not saying it. So, let's dive in, shall we?

1) They avoid eye contact

Eye contact is a powerful form of nonverbal communication. It's often used to show engagement, interest and of course, likeability.

But when someone isn't too fond of you, they might avoid making eye contact with you. It's a classic sign that's hard to ignore.

This doesn't necessarily mean they hate you. It could simply mean they're uncomfortable around you or they're trying to disengage from any form of connection.

Keep in mind, though, that some people are naturally shy or introverted and may avoid eye contact for different reasons. It's all about understanding the context and knowing the person.

But if this behavior is consistent and is coupled with other signs on this list, then it could be a subtle hint that they may not like you.

2) They're always too busy for you

You know, I've experienced this myself. I had a friend who was always "too busy" whenever I suggested we hang out. It didn't matter whether it was a quick coffee catch-up or a weekend trip, they always had some excuse up their sleeve.

Over time, I realized that it was more than just a string of coincidences. They were never too busy for other friends, just me. It stung, but it was a clear sign that they weren't really invested in our friendship.

When someone consistently makes themselves unavailable for you, it could be their subtle way of saying they don't enjoy your company. It's their way of creating distance without having to say it outright.

Remember though, everyone has periods of busyness in their life. But if they can't find time for you over an extended period, it's possibly a sign they may not like you.

3) Their body language is closed off

Body language can say a lot more than words sometimes. When someone likes you, they tend to have an open posture. Their arms are relaxed, their body is facing you, and their feet might even be pointed in your direction.

However, if someone dislikes you, they'll usually display the opposite. Their body language will be closed off. They might cross their arms, angle their body away from you, or even create physical barriers by holding something between you and them.

Interestingly, this behavior is not just limited to humans. Even animals use body language to express their feelings. For instance, dogs will often turn their bodies away from things they don't like or are uncomfortable with.

So next time, pay close attention to the body language of the person in question. It could reveal a lot about how they truly feel about you.

4) They interrupt you often

Respectful communication involves listening to the other person without interrupting. It’s an unwritten rule we all understand. But when someone doesn't like you, they might not mind breaking this rule.

They may interrupt you frequently while you're speaking or even talk over you. This is a subtle yet clear sign of their lack of interest or respect for what you have to say.

It's their way of asserting dominance or control in the conversation, and it often stems from a place of disregard or dislike.

If you notice this behavior, try not to take it personally. It says more about them than it does about you.

5) They don't remember personal details

When someone genuinely cares about you, they take the time to remember the little things about you - your birthday, your favorite food, or even that funny story you once shared about your childhood.

But if someone consistently forgets these personal details, it could be a sign that they're not particularly fond of you.

It can feel hurtful, especially when you've opened up to them. But remember, everyone's capacity to remember details varies, and it's not always a reflection of their feelings towards you.

However, if this lack of memory is consistent and is combined with other signs on this list, it might indicate that they don't hold you in high regard.

6) They often criticize you

I remember a time when a colleague of mine would constantly criticize my work. No matter what I did, it was never good enough for them. It took a toll on my self-esteem, and I found myself dreading going to work.

When someone is always critical of you, it might be their way of expressing their dislike. Constructive criticism is one thing, but constant, unwarranted criticism is another.

Remember, nobody's perfect. But if someone consistently points out your flaws while overlooking your strengths, it could be a sign they don't like you very much.

Just remember to differentiate between someone who's genuinely trying to help you improve and someone who's merely trying to bring you down.

7) They don't laugh at your jokes

Humor is a great bonding tool. It brings people together and creates a sense of camaraderie. When someone likes you, they'll usually laugh at your jokes, even when they're not that funny.

But if someone doesn't like you, they might not find your humor appealing. They might not even crack a smile when everyone else is laughing.

This doesn't mean your jokes are bad. It could just be their way of subtly showing that they don't share the same connection with you as others do.

However, keep in mind that everyone's sense of humor is different. So don't take it personally if someone doesn't laugh at your jokes. It could just be a difference in comedic tastes.

8) They avoid spending time with you

At the end of the day, people choose to spend time with those they genuinely like and enjoy being around. If someone consistently avoids spending time with you or makes excuses to leave when you're around, it's a strong sign they may not like you.

This is perhaps the most obvious and telling sign of all. It's a clear indication that they do not find your company enjoyable or valuable.

It's important to remember that everyone is entitled to choose who they want to spend their time with. It might hurt, but it's crucial to respect their choice and find people who appreciate you for who you are.

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Lachlan Brown

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Lachlan Brown is a psychology graduate, mindfulness enthusiast, and the bestselling author of Hidden Secrets of Buddhism: How to Live with Maximum Impact and Minimum Ego. Based between Vietnam and Singapore, Lachlan is passionate about blending Eastern wisdom with modern well-being practices.

As the founder of several digital publications, including Hack Spirit, Lachlan has reached millions with his clear, compassionate writing on self-development, relationships, and conscious living. A long-time vegetarian turned mostly plant-based eater, he believes food should nourish both the body and the spirit — and that conscious choices create powerful ripple effects.

When he’s not writing or running his media business, you’ll find him riding his bike through the streets of Saigon, practicing Vietnamese with his wife, or reading about psychology and Buddhist philosophy over a strong black coffee.

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