Body Language Myths You Should Know About

Not always the body language signals are readable as given in the book. Sometimes – in fact, most of the times – you need to pay attention to the context to the able to read accurately what you see. Also, there are myths that abound around body language that could throw you off pretty bad. It is important that you are aware about some of these most often encountered myths so you do not end up in awkward or even dangerous situation because you misread the signals.

Myth 1: No Eye Contact Means Lying

Truth: Not necessarily. Basically, not meeting the eyes means the person is not comfortable with what he is doing or saying. There could be 1001 reasons why the person is not comfortable – other than lying. On the other hand, a practiced liar would actually meet your eyes square on and tell you a lie without blinking. Might shift the eyes after he told the lie; but one can tell a lie while looking you straight in the eye. Hence, not all the people who cannot look you in the eye are telling lies; as not all people who look you in the eye, are not telling you the truth. You need to look for a combination of other telltale signs to make an accurate observation. It is worthwhile to mention here that most people process information with the help of their feelings, hearing and sight. Hence, if they are visualizing it they will look up; if they want to hear it, they will look from side to side; if they are feeling it, they would look down on their hands and feet. Looking up, side to side or to the hands – all mean that a process of thinking/ judging is taking place. This is definitely not even close to lying.

Myth 2: Crossing Arms Means “Not Interested”

Truth: While it is true that people would normally cross their arms when they want to put a barrier between something and themselves, it does not always mean that. Sometimes, it’s too cold and you cross your arms. Sometimes, that is the most comfortable position – for example, when the chair does not have arm rest. Sometimes, crossing arms means the person is thinking something in depth and with great concentration. You need to look beyond the posture in most cases, to get the real picture. Check the context before you draw any conclusions. On the other hand, avoid crossing your arms across your chest while you are meeting new people lest you’ll be read as uninterested or hostile.

Myth 3: Fidgety People Are Perhaps Hiding Something

Truth: The common belief is that hiding something makes a person uncomfortable and hence, the person comes across as fidgety. Once again, you need to look at this aspect in context. Suppose the person is facing an important interview, presentation, or any such event which is of critical importance, it is normal for a person to be slightly nervous. It is nervousness that makes people fidget. If the situation is stressful, some degree of fidgetiness is acceptable.

Myth 4: Anyone Who Talks Fast Is Conning You

Truth: People who are nervous may sometimes talk fast. People who are overenthusiastic about something will talk fast. Also people who are anxious to convince you about something they feel is either very important to you or to them, will talk fast. Lastly, sometimes people talk fast because that is the way they talk. Before you draw your conclusions, ensure that you understand the background. It is always good to look for other telltale signs before deciding that the person who talks fast is not to be trusted.

Myth 5: A Good Verbal Communication Will Compensate For Inadequate Body Language

This is often the idea with people who make presentations or require giving speeches. The truth is that however well prepared you are words are never enough. Over a half-an-hour two people can exchange about 800 non-verbal signs. Do you still think you don’t need to prepare for the non-verbal side of the conversation?

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