Differentiating between someone who is pretending to be interested in hanging out with you and someone who genuinely wants to but is busy can sometimes be challenging, but there are a few signs that can help you distinguish between the two:
Consistency in communication: A genuine friend who is busy but interested in hanging out will make an effort to stay in touch, even if they can't meet up immediately. They will respond to your messages or calls regularly and keep you updated on their availability.
Sincerity in their responses: Pay attention to how they respond when you suggest hanging out. Someone who is genuinely interested will sound enthusiastic and appreciative of the invitation, even if they can't make it at that moment.
Offering alternative plans: A person who wants to hang out but is busy will likely suggest alternative times or dates that could work for them. They'll show a willingness to find a suitable time to meet.
Prioritizing your relationship: A genuine friend will make an effort to prioritize your friendship and spend time with you whenever possible, even if it means adjusting their schedule occasionally.
Follow-through on plans: If your friend commits to a specific time to hang out, they will follow through or let you know in advance if something comes up.
Actions match words: Observe if their actions align with what they say. If they frequently make excuses or cancel plans last minute without a valid reason, it may indicate a lack of genuine interest.
Reciprocating efforts: A good friendship is built on mutual effort and interest. If you're consistently the one initiating plans and communication, it might be a sign that the other person is not as invested.
Considering their life circumstances: Sometimes people genuinely have busy periods in their lives due to work, family commitments, or other responsibilities. Understanding their situation can help you gauge their level of interest.
It's essential to keep in mind that everyone's life can get busy from time to time, and genuine friends understand and support each other during these periods. If you have concerns about the sincerity of a person's interest, try having an open and honest conversation with them about how you feel. Communication can help clarify any misunderstandings and strengthen your relationship.