Have you ever felt like someone was being nice to you, but deep down, you weren’t sure if they really meant it? Whether it’s a friend, a partner, or even a coworker, knowing someone’s true intentions can save you from heartbreak, betrayal, or wasted energy. The tricky part? People who hide their real motives are often very good at it. But don’t worry—there are subtle signs that reveal the truth. Read on How to Know Someone’s True Intentions? 7 Surprising Signs You Never Noticed.
How to Know Someone’s True Intentions? 7 Surprising Signs You Never Noticed
Here are seven unexpected ways to uncover what someone really wants from you.
1. Their Energy Feels “Off” Even When Their Words Are Perfect
People can lie with words, but their energy never lies. Ever felt uneasy around someone but couldn’t explain why? Your subconscious mind picks up on micro-expressions, voice tones, and tiny inconsistencies. If someone’s actions don’t match their words, your gut will send you warning signals.
Pay attention to:
- If you feel drained after being around them
- If they say all the right things but something still feels “off”
- If you feel like you have to overthink their words
2. They Joke About Things That Reveal Their True Thoughts
Pay close attention to what people “joke” about. Sometimes, what seems like a casual comment is actually a window into their true beliefs.
Red flags include:
- Joking about using people for their own benefit
- Comments disguised as humor that belittle you
- “Playing around” with the idea of betraying someone’s trust
A joke is often just the truth wrapped in laughter. Don’t ignore it.
3. They Treat People Differently When They Think No One Is Watching
How does this person behave when they’re not trying to impress anyone? If someone is kind to you but rude to waiters, cleaners, or people they see as “unimportant,” their kindness is an act. Their real personality shows when they don’t think it “matters.”
Watch for:
- How they treat strangers vs. people they want something from
- If they suddenly change when in front of different people
- How they behave when they have nothing to gain
4. They Create “Mini Tests” to See How Much You’ll Give
People with hidden intentions often test your boundaries before making bigger moves. It starts with small favors, emotional tests, or “accidental” mistakes to see how much they can get away with.
Look for:
- Repeatedly asking for small favors to see if you’ll say no
- Giving you guilt trips when you set a boundary
- Making “harmless” mistakes that inconvenience you but benefit them
If they keep testing how much they can take from you, it’s not by accident—it’s a pattern.
5. They Get Defensive When You Ask Direct Questions
If someone has nothing to hide, they won’t get uncomfortable when you ask direct questions. But if they avoid answering, change the subject, or get irritated, that’s a sign of hidden motives.
Ask questions like:
- “Why did you do that?” and see if they get nervous
- “What are you hoping to get out of this situation?”
- “What would you do if you didn’t get what you wanted?”
If they act like you’re being rude for simply asking, they don’t want you to know the truth.
6. They Seem to Mirror Your Likes, Dislikes, and Values Too Perfectly
Some people study you to become your perfect match—not because they genuinely share your values, but because they want to earn your trust. This is common in manipulative friendships and romantic relationships.
Signs of fake mirroring:
- They agree with everything you say but never share their own opinions
- They suddenly “love” all your interests, even ones they used to dislike
- They switch personalities depending on who they’re with
True compatibility comes from genuine connection, not perfect mirroring.
7. They Keep You in a State of Uncertainty
People with hidden agendas never want you to feel completely safe. They keep you guessing, waiting, or doubting yourself because when you’re confused, you’re easier to control.
Look for patterns of:
- Hot and cold behavior (one day they adore you, the next they’re distant)
- Giving mixed signals about their intentions
- Making you feel like you constantly have to “earn” their approval
Someone with good intentions will make you feel secure—not like you have to constantly prove your worth.
Final Thoughts on How to Know Someone’s True Intentions? 7 Surprising Signs You Never Noticed: Always Trust Patterns, Not Promises
People can promise anything, but their patterns will always tell you the truth. If someone’s words and actions don’t match up, believe what they do, not what they say.
Now that you know these hidden signs, trust yourself. If something feels off, it probably is. And the sooner you recognize it, the easier it is to walk away before getting hurt.
Join us on this journey of self-discovery, empowerment, and celebration! Here’s to strong women – may we know them, may we be them, may we inspire them!
With love and inspiration,
Women on Topp Magazine
By subscribing, you accept the privacy rules of our website.
