He leans in
If a guy is interested, you'll find that his body will lean forward toward yours. This move can be either very subtle or extremely "in your face" (literally). It's his way of letting you know he'd like to get closer. Once his interest is piqued, you'll both find it hard to pull away!
His eyes have it
We've all heard the proverb, "The eyes are the window to the soul." If he's interested in you, he'll focus on you with those piercing peepers. Return his romantic gaze with a quiet smile and let him know you’re interested.
He's got the touch
If a guy is interested, he'll want to be near you. He'll also want to take every opportunity to touch you. Maybe it's your arm, your leg, your knee—it doesn't matter, as long as his presence is physical and affectionate. It's his way of letting you know he likes you.
He just happened to run into you
Coincidence is out. Serendipity is in. Those so-called "happy accidents" may not be so accidental after all. Perhaps his "surprise" appearance at your favorite Starbucks or hangout is a signal that he's trying to connect with you (but doesn't want you to think he's a stalker!). Take this as a positive sign and make the most of your next encounter. You may find that you share more in common than just an addiction to double lattes.
He listens!
How do you know that you have a guy's attention? When he's not talking about himself. It's that simple. The next time you're in a bar, listen closely to any table full of men and you’ll hear them speaking rapturously about their favorite subject: themselves. When a man shuts up and really listens to what you have to say, you know it must be love (or at least a strong attraction). He'll put that male ADD to rest once and for all after he's found the one.
He'll watch a chick flick
Chances are he'd much rather be watching the big game, but it's an important sign if he shows an interest in the things you like as well. If he's happy to watch a movie you picked out or doesn't complain when it's time to hit the mall for a little shopping trip, you've made a serious leap forward in the dating game! Give him extra points if he makes the popcorn.
He laughs at your jokes
Can't tell a joke to save your life? Does he laugh at it anyway? Men are very in touch with their sense of humor (women often complain that men never take anything seriously, right?), so if he's sending some hearty laughter your way, it's a good bet he's looking at you as relationship material.
He's nervous
If a guy's into you, you’ll make him nervous. He'll get goose bumps or a rapidly beating heart just from being around you. Look for signs like unexplained laughter, sweaty palms and fidgeting. Guys always want to be in control of their emotions—we like to be in charge. If he has trouble doing that around you, it's most likely because you make him nervous and excited. Don't take it for granted; help him to relax and he'll thank you by being a great guy you can depend on.
He opens up
Men and women have very different brain chemistry: She’s verbal; he’s not. He’s driven by visual desires, while she’s guided by deep emotions. Women are taught to rationally express their feelings and feel no shame in crying, and men punch things. So if you get a guy to actually open up and express his emotions, consider it a major achievement in your relationship. Discussing your feelings for each other is a powerful bonding experience for the two of you and serves to strengthen a relationship for whatever challenges the future may bring.
He keeps you close
Romance is all about reciprocity—both emotional and physical. Translation: meet his advances with your own. If he sits close to you, maintain that proximity. If he grabs your hand, initiate hand-holding later. This not only signals your own interest, but also serves to keep his.
A version of this story originally appeared on iVillage.
