Micro-Flirting: The Long and Short of It

You could be at school, or at work, or at the gym, then the girl you find cute comes heading your way.

There's a part of you that wants to say something; anything at all, really, to let her know that you exist. Then, there's another part of you that wants nothing more than to shrink down to microscopic size and avoid any kind of interaction. So, what do you do?

For many, the answer comes in the form of micro-flirting.

It's the new buzzword that's taken the internet by storm. Essentially, you're still flirting but on a much smaller, far more subtle scale. It's safe, reliable, and you won't put yourself at risk of being embarrassingly rejected.

How Does It Work?

Micro flirting can be done in a myriad of ways. Chances are, you've probably done it yourself before. Maybe even multiple times, to multiple people, all without realizing it. That is the beauty of it, because it can escape anyone's notice and help build rapport in smaller, safer ways.

For those looking for specific examples, here are a few ways to micro flirt:

Making Eye Contact

What could be simpler than locking eyes with the person you want to flirt with? A direct gaze, held long enough to show that you're confident enough to do so, is often the way to go.

Giving Compliments

Nothing too brash, of course. Something simple, even bordering on innocent, will do. It can be about something physical. Or, it can be something beyond that to not make the flirting even remotely obvious.

Telling a Joke

It doesn't have to be a funny rizz line. Even the most innocuous joke would do. In many ways, getting the people you like to laugh out loud is one of the best ways to get them to like you back.

Slight Physical Contact

A tap on the shoulder or brushing against someone's arm is often seen as subtle enough gestures to be considered a micro flirt. This can satisfy the doer's need for connection while ensuring that the receiver is clueless enough.

Paying Attention Online

Given how modern dating is often inclusive of online tactics, things like reacting to posts, watching stories, or tagging others in memes on the regular can also be seen as micro flirtations.

Who Does These Things and Why?

Anyone can flirt like this, really. Yet, the ones who benefit from these actions the most are those who may lack the confidence to be more direct. Some may even use these as stepping stones to bolder moves once they notice that the person they like is at least somewhat interested or receptive of their overtures.

However, micro flirts aren't just for the shy or unconfident. Others may engage in this because they can be fun. It lacks the heft of full-on flirting, and as stated above, they are safe and easy enough for anyone to pull off.

So, if you have a classmate, a colleague, or even just an acquaintance that you've been dying to get to know better, maybe micro-flirting with them won't be such a bad idea.

If it falls flat, then you've risked very little and you can move on quickly without anyone noticing much–or anything–at all. If it turns out well, then the rest, as they say, is history.