8 signs a woman is intensely attracted to you (but wants you to make the first move)

So, you’re starting to get the feeling that a certain woman might be into you—but she’s not making the first move?

It’s a classic scenario. Attraction can be tricky to navigate, especially when someone is holding back, waiting for you to take the lead.

The truth is, many women prefer to drop subtle hints rather than openly confess their feelings.

But don’t worry—that doesn’t mean you’re stuck in the dark.

As a relationship expert, I’ve got you covered. Today, we’re diving into eight key signs that a woman is really into you but wants you to make the first move.

Ready to crack the code?

Let’s get into it!

1) She’s initiating contact

Here’s a little secret – if a woman is genuinely attracted to you, she’ll find ways to initiate contact without making it seem like she’s coming on too strong.

Think about it. Is she the one who often texts or calls first?

Does she reach out to you on social media, liking or commenting on your posts? Do you happen to ‘run into’ her quite often?

These are often clear signs that she’s interested in you and wants to keep the conversation going.

2) She plays with her hair

I know, this one might sound oddly specific, but trust me—it’s a common one.

Playing with her hair is a subtle, almost subconscious move that women often make when they’re attracted to someone. 

I’ve seen this time and time again. And I’m not the only one.

Experts like Professor Ronald E. Riggio have pointed out how small, nonverbal cues like this can be strong indicators of interest.

Basically, it’s a way of drawing attention to herself, signaling that she’s feeling a bit flirty, even if she doesn’t outright say it.

Have you caught her twirling a strand of hair or smoothing it down while talking to you?

It could be her way of showing she’s into you—and maybe even waiting for you to take that next step!

3) She opens up with you

Have you noticed her sharing personal stories or getting real about her feelings with you?

This is a big one. When a woman is attracted to someone, she’ll often open up and let her guard down.

Vulnerability is a key sign of trust and attraction.

As Brené Brown beautifully wrote, “We cultivate love when we allow our most vulnerable and powerful selves to be deeply seen and known, and when we honor the spiritual connection that grows from that offering with trust, respect, kindness, and affection.”

4) She pulls away occasionally

This might seem a bit counterintuitive, but bear with me.

When a woman is intensely attracted to you, she might pull away occasionally.

This doesn’t mean she’s lost interest. Quite the opposite, in fact.

She’s probably just trying to gauge your interest in her. She wants to see if you’ll notice her absence and reach out to her.

In other words, she’s testing the waters to see if you’re as attracted to her as she is to you.

5) She remembers the little things

One of the most heartfelt signs of intense attraction is when a woman remembers the little things about you.

It shows that she’s truly listening and values what you’re saying.

Has she ever brought up a random fact or story that you told her weeks ago? Or maybe she’s remembered your favorite movie or food without you having to remind her?

These are all signs that she’s paying close attention to you and genuinely cares about your interests and experiences.

Research backs this up – yep, studies have shown we are more likely to remember things about people we are attracted to. 

And speaking from personal experience, this is a sign I’ve seen time and time again in my own relationships and in those I’ve counseled.

6) She teases you

She gives you a hard time about something small, like your taste in music, the way you always forget your coffee order, or how you always show up five minutes late. Sound familiar?

It might seem like harmless banter, but teasing is often her way of building rapport and flirting without being too obvious.

Teasing keeps the conversation playful, creates a fun back-and-forth, and helps break down walls between you.

It’s her way of showing she’s comfortable around you while testing the waters of attraction.

7) She subtly makes physical contact

I know this one sounds a bit weird. I mean, a light touch on the arm or a brush of the shoulder might not seem like much, but trust me—it’s intentional.

When a woman is attracted to you, she’ll often find subtle ways to initiate physical contact without making it too obvious.

These little gestures, like playfully nudging you or sitting just a little closer than usual, are her way of building connection and gauging your comfort level.

8) She’s oh-so-casually interested in your love life

Last but not least, she may ask if you’re seeing anyone or subtly try to find out what type of person you’re into.

She’s not being nosy—this is her way of gauging where you stand romantically without coming across as too direct.

When a woman is attracted to you, she’ll often slip in questions about your love life, hoping to see if there’s room for her.

She might laugh it off or act casual, but deep down, she’s interested in knowing if you’re available and what you’re looking for.

Conclusion

Recognizing the signs of intense attraction can be a game changer in the dating world.

It can help you understand her feelings and make your move with confidence.

Each woman is unique, and these signs may vary from person to person.

However, these are some of the most common indicators of intense attraction that I’ve encountered in my experience as a relationship expert.

If you’re seeing these signs in a woman, she’s probably waiting for you to make the first move.

So if you’re ready, take that leap of faith!

And for more insights on building healthy relationships, check out my book Breaking The Attachment: How To Overcome Codependency in Your Relationship.

It’s packed with practical tips and advice to help you navigate the complexities of love and attraction.

Remember, love is a beautiful journey. Enjoy every step of it!