Lucas Graham
Navigating social interactions can be a tricky maze. Sometimes, it’s hard to tell what others really think of you.
However, according to psychology, there are some subtle clues that people might think highly of you. These rare signs often go unnoticed.
In this article, we’ll explore these eight telltale indicators. They might just reveal that others hold you in high regard, and you didn’t even know it.
So, make a cup of tea and get ready to delve into the fascinating world of human psychology and social perceptions.
1) Genuine listening
Navigating the world of social signals can sometimes feel like trying to decode a secret language. But one of the most powerful, yet often overlooked, signs that someone thinks highly of you is their willingness to truly listen.
Psychology tells us that active listening goes beyond just hearing words. It’s all about making the speaker feel valued and important and involves:
- Giving full attention
- Showing interest
- Responding in a way that encourages further communication.
When someone genuinely listens to you, it’s a strong indicator that they respect your thoughts and opinions. They see value in what you have to say.
So next time you’re in a conversation, take note of who is really taking in your words. It might reveal more about their perception of you than you think.
2) They seek your advice
Now here’s a sign I’ve personally experienced that shows someone might think highly of you. When people start seeking your advice, it can be a clear indicator that they respect your judgment.
I remember a time when a colleague, who I had always seen as a mentor, started asking for my opinions on decisions she was making.
It took me by surprise at first. I mean, she was the one I usually turned to for advice!
But then it struck me – her seeking my input wasn’t just about needing another perspective. It was a sign of respect for my judgment and abilities.
It showed me that she valued my thoughts and saw me as someone whose opinion mattered.
When people come to you for advice, it’s because they trust you and see you as someone with wisdom to share.
So if you notice this happening more often, it’s quite possible that they think highly of you.
3) They remember the little things
There’s a fascinating phenomenon in psychology called the “next-in-line effect“.
This states that people often forget information shared by others when they’re preparing to speak next in a conversation.
But when someone remembers small details from your past conversations, it defies this theory.
This could be something trivial or minor like:
- A favorite movie you mentioned once
- Your grandmother’s name
- The fact that you prefer cream in your coffee
This act of remembering the little things is a sign that someone not only listens but cares enough to commit those details to memory.
It shows they were truly present, tuned into what you were saying, and made a mental effort to retain that information.
This respect for your shared communication demonstrates that they think highly of you.
4) They defend you in your absence
It’s easy for people to agree with the crowd, especially if the person being talked about isn’t present.
But when someone takes a stand for you in your absence, it says a lot about their respect for you.
This act of loyalty, of defending your reputation or actions when you’re not there to do it yourself, is a clear sign that someone thinks highly of you.
They respect you enough to back you up and ensure your fair representation, even when it might be easier to remain silent or go along with the majority.
So, if you hear from others that someone defended you or spoke highly of you when you weren’t around, take it as a compliment. They truly respect and value you.
5) They celebrate your successes
There’s something incredibly heartwarming about someone who not only acknowledges your achievements but also celebrates them as if they were their own.
This genuine happiness for your success, without any hint of jealousy or resentment, is a beautiful sign of respect and admiration.
When people truly think highly of you, they view your victories as their own. They are excited to see you succeed, and their pride in your accomplishments is palpable.
If you have someone in your life who cheers for you, shares in your joy, and is genuinely thrilled by your successes, cherish them.
Their genuine support and admiration are rare and precious signs that they truly think highly of you.
6) They include you in their future plans
When I was fresh out of college, I made a new friend at my first job. We hit it off immediately and spent a lot of time together.
However, it wasn’t until she started including me in her long-term plans that I realized how much she valued our friendship.
She’d talk about trips we could take the following year, or projects we could collaborate on down the line.
She was envisioning a future with me in it, which was more than just a sign of her friendship; it was a testament to the high regard she had for me.
When people include you in their future plans, it means they not only value your current relationship but also see its long-term potential.
They respect and appreciate you enough to imagine a future where you still play an important role in their life. That’s a profound sign of their high regard for you.
7) They make time for you
In today’s fast-paced world, time is a precious commodity. When someone makes a conscious effort to spend their time with you, it’s a strong indicator of their respect and admiration for you.
They may have a lot on their plate, but they still prioritize spending time with you. They might rearrange their schedule, postpone other commitments, or simply ensure they’re free when you are.
These actions are a testament to their high regard for you.
Remember, anyone can say they value you, but actions speak louder than words. Making time for someone is one of the most sincere ways to show that you think highly of them.
8) They respect your boundaries
At the core of any healthy relationship is the mutual respect of boundaries.
When someone truly values and respects you they will:
- Honor your personal space
- Respects your decisions
- Uuderstand your need for personal time without taking offense
Respecting boundaries is more than just giving you space; it’s about understanding and acknowledging that your needs, feelings, and rights are just as important as theirs.
This recognition and acceptance is a profound sign that they hold you in high regard.
Remember, respect for boundaries is not just a sign of a good relationship; it’s a sign of deep admiration and high regard.
A matter of perspective
Whilst navigating through the complex maze of social interactions, it can be easy to overlook the subtle yet profoundly meaningful signs that someone rates you highly.
Signs as simple as a genuine smile, a heartfelt compliment, or a thoughtful gesture say a great deal about how someone feels towards you.
So keep an eye out for these signs. They are not just indicators that others think highly of you, but affirmations of your own worth and potential. They are reminders that you are seen, valued, and respected.
