This is something that I've come to discover over the past couple of years. People tend to think that other people like them less than they actually do. People

This is something that I've come to discover over the past couple of years. People tend to think that other people like them less than they actually do. People will often think "oh wow, that person is great, I really want to spend more time with them", but then won't push the relationship (platonic or not) further because they're uncertain if the feelings are mutual. I've missed out and let a lot of relationships and friendships fade because of these feelings. In general, we tend to have a lower opinion of ourselves than what other people do. As the study says, we're a lot more aware of our fears and insecurities than the people we interact with, as people aren't mind readers. > Finally, simply ending an initial conversation with “I really enjoyed speaking with you” can help take the ambiguity out of the exchange Reaching out like this and making positive statements can mean a lot to the person you're talking to. I've found it really strengthens a relationship to make these kinds of positive comments. You feel awkward the first few times you say it, because we're so unused to making meaningful compliments about people's personalities, but it's a really good thing to do. Saying something like "I really value our friendship" can absolutely make someone's day.