Does He REALLY Want a Relationship or Is He Lying? 6 Ways To Decipher His True Intentions

Notes from the podcast:

When diving into the world of online dating, you might be overwhelmed by the mixed signals men send. But recent research has unearthed a subtle yet powerful indicator of a man’s relationship intent: his profile picture. Specifically, men who include photos with dependents, like dogs, are more likely to seek long-term relationships. Let’s explore why men send these confusing messages and how you can decode their true intentions.

The Mixed Messages Dilemma

You’re looking for a committed, fulfilling relationship with a guy who wants the same thing. However, men often send mixed signals, sometimes seeming eager for a relationship and other times acting distant. This inconsistency can leave you frustrated and confused.

Understanding the Male Mindset

To navigate these waters, it helps to understand the motivations behind a man’s actions. Here are four key insights into the male mindset:

#1. Guys Are Practical

If a man lies or sends mixed signals, it’s often for practical reasons rather than personal ones. He might be hiding his true intentions to avoid questions that could expose his lack of interest in a serious relationship. Understanding this can help you see through the facade.

#2. Guys Don’t Want to Hurt You

Men generally don’t want to cause emotional pain. They might create distance by not sharing personal details or downplaying their qualities to prevent you from getting too close. This is a way to protect both parties from developing deeper feelings that could complicate things.

#3. Effort Equals Importance

Men show care through effort. Just as they invest time and energy into their careers, hobbies, and health when something matters, the right guy will go the extra mile for you. If he’s not putting in the effort, he might not value the relationship as much as you do.

#4. Avoiding Messy Break-Ups

Men prefer uncomplicated breakups. To keep things simple, they might avoid fully integrating you into their lives. This means keeping you away from their homes, not introducing you to friends and family, and avoiding shared belongings or commitments.

Signs of Relationship Intent

What He Says

Asking a man directly about his intentions is often futile. Like a job interview, he’s likely prepared with an answer he thinks you’ll like. Instead, focus on indirect signs of his intent.

Indirect Indicators

1. Lifestyle Choices: Look at how he manages his life. Is he someone who plans for the future or lives in the moment? Men who invest in their future (e.g., saving for retirement, planning ahead) are more likely to seek long-term relationships.

2. Language Use: Pay attention to his pronouns. Does he talk about “we” and “us,” or is it mostly “I” and “me”? Inclusive language often indicates he’s thinking about a future with you.

3. Comfort with Depth: Is he comfortable discussing his feelings and motivations, or does he stick to surface-level facts? A man who shares his deeper thoughts and emotions is likely considering a serious relationship.

Consistency Matters

A man’s profile might say he’s looking for a long-term relationship, but if his actions suggest otherwise, take note. Consistency between what he says and what he does is crucial. For instance, if he claims to want a long-term relationship but is open to short-term flings, that’s a red flag.

Actions Speak Louder

The Say-Do Ratio

Evaluate him based on his actions, not just his words. If he consistently follows through on what he says, that’s a good sign. However, if there’s a gap between his promises and actions, proceed cautiously.

Beware of Subtle Behaviors and Grand Gestures

1. Minor Behaviors: Avoid overanalyzing minor behaviors or playing armchair psychologist. Focus on clear, consistent actions.

2. Grand Gestures: Be cautious of extravagant displays of affection early on. These can be superficial and not reflect his true feelings, especially if he doesn’t know you well.

Conclusion

Navigating the dating world requires a strategic approach. Don’t rely solely on hope or impatience when evaluating a potential partner. Pay attention to his actions and consistency, and ensure that your own signals align with your long-term intentions. By understanding the subtle cues and motivations behind a man’s behavior, you can better discern his true relationship intent and find a partner who truly matches your goals.