5 Signs They’re Leading You On
Ever been swept up in a whirlwind romance, only to wonder if the affection's mutual?
You're in good company. Navigating modern dating can feel like deciphering a cryptic code of intentions.
Sure, some wear their intentions on their sleeve, but it's the mysterious ones that trigger the alarm. Mastering the art of spotting signs that someone is leading you on is your secret weapon as you venture into new dating territory.
No one likes to feel like they’re getting the run-around, so keep an eye out for these 5 signs:
Their interest and engagement fluctuate. People who are leading you on often display inconsistent behavior. They might alternate between being extremely interested and engaged one moment, and then distant and aloof the next. This pattern can leave you feeling unsure about where you stand with them.
They make empty promises. If they frequently make promises about future plans or commitments, but fail to follow through, it could be a sign that they're not genuinely invested in the relationship. They might talk about taking trips together, attending events, or meeting family, but these discussions remain just words without any concrete plans.
They make a limited effort to communicate with you. When someone is leading you on, their communication efforts might be superficial. They could send sporadic messages or engage in small talk without delving into deeper conversations that foster genuine connection. Their conversations might lack substance and meaning. They’re often not the one initiating the conversation, but responding to your messages.
They’re ambiguous about the relationship. If they avoid defining the nature of your relationship or dodge conversations about exclusivity, commitment, or future goals, it's a sign that they're comfortable keeping things unclear. This grey area allows them to maintain your current arrangement without making any substantial commitments.
They're not introducing you to friends or family. If they’re leading you on they might be hesitant to integrate you into their social circles or share significant aspects of their lives with you. They might avoid introducing you to friends and family, or keep you separate from their public life, indicating a lack of intention to deepen the connection any further.
Did you spot a few of those signs in the person you’re seeing?
If so, here’s what you should do next - tackle it head-on without judgment. Instead of beating yourself up, recognize the issue. Don't push them away by making them feel guilty or inadequate. Try something like, "I've noticed I usually initiate plans. Is that because of my interest or your preference?" This creates a space for honest answers and avoids defensiveness. If they admit they prefer your initiative, awesome! Politely ask for more reassurance when you set things up. But if they confirm your suspicions, that's okay too.
Remember, it's not about fault. You get to decide what's best for you.
If you’re worried they're not as invested, remember, that their response doesn't define them or you.
Having an answer, even if it's not what you hoped for, beats uncertainty any day.
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