10 subtle signs someone in your life brings you real joy, according to psychology

The people in our lives can be a source of both stress and joy.

But how can we tell if someone truly brings us happiness?

Psychology gives us some subtle signs to look out for. These are not always obvious, but once you know what to look for, you’ll see them everywhere.

Spotting these signs can help you understand who in your life brings you real joy. And knowing this can guide you towards more fulfilling relationships.

So, here are some subtle signs to watch for.

1) They make you smile… a lot

You know that person who always leaves you with a smile on your face? That’s the first psychological sign of joy.

It’s not just about the big laughs and guffaws. It’s about those little smiles that slip out when you’re simply chatting or spending quiet moments together.

According to psychology, these spontaneous smiles are a strong indicator of joy. Known as Duchenne smiles, they involve not just your mouth but also your eyes and cheeks.

These are the smiles that are genuinely connected to feeling happy. They’re not forced or fake but naturally arise out of genuine joy.

So if there’s someone who frequently triggers these Duchenne smiles in you, chances are they bring real joy into your life.

2) You feel at ease with them

Have you ever noticed how some people just have that calming presence? For me, it’s my best friend, Sarah.

Whenever I’m around Sarah, it feels like all my stress and worries just melt away. It’s like she has this magical ability to create a bubble of calmness around us.

Even on days when I’m feeling down or overwhelmed, spending time with her always makes me feel better.

We can sit in silence, chat about random things, or even just do our own stuff in the same room. The comfort is in knowing that she’s there.

Psychologists explain this as a sense of safety and security that stems from trust and emotional intimacy. It’s the feeling of being understood and accepted for who you are.

So if there’s someone in your life with whom you feel this level of comfort and ease, it’s a pretty clear sign that they bring genuine joy into your life.

3) Your body language mirrors theirs

Unconsciously mirroring the body language of someone else is a sign of rapport and connection.

It’s an indication that you’re in sync with each other, a phenomenon known as “postural echo”.

This doesn’t mean you mimic their every move like a parrot. It’s more about subtle gestures and postures.

For example, if they lean in during a conversation, you might find yourself doing the same.

Interestingly, this mirroring extends to our physiological responses as well. Studies have shown that when we’re around people who bring us joy, our heart rates and breathing patterns can sync up with theirs.

4) You feel energized around them

Ever had those days when you feel drained out, but then you meet up with someone and suddenly you have a spring in your step?

This is another subtle sign that someone brings you immense joy.

When we are around people who make us happy, our bodies often respond by releasing endorphins, the body’s natural ‘feel-good’ chemicals.

These endorphins not only make us feel happier but also more energetic.

5) You look forward to seeing them

Anticipation is a powerful emotion. Whether it’s the thrill of an upcoming vacation or the excitement of a new movie release, looking forward to something can bring us a lot of joy.

The same applies to people in our lives.

If you find yourself frequently checking your watch, eagerly awaiting your next meeting with someone, it’s a good sign they bring happiness into your life.

This eagerness to see them again is not just about missing them. It’s about the joy and positive energy you expect from your next encounter.

6) They accept you, flaws and all

We all have our quirks and imperfections. But when someone sees those flaws and still appreciates you, it’s a beautiful feeling.

This acceptance goes beyond just tolerating your quirks. It’s about valuing you for who you are, not despite your flaws, but including them.

It’s about seeing your full picture and cherishing it.

This kind of acceptance can bring immense joy into our lives. It gives us the freedom to be ourselves without fear of judgment or rejection.

7) They make you want to be a better person

I have a friend who always inspires me with her kindness and generosity. She has this innate ability to see the good in others, and her positivity is infectious.

Being around her doesn’t just make me happy, it also motivates me to be the best version of myself.

I find myself wanting to adopt her positive outlook, to be more kind, more understanding, more giving.

This is another subtle sign that someone brings you joy. They inspire you to grow and improve.

Their influence isn’t forceful or demanding, but it’s a gentle nudge that encourages positive change within you.

If there’s someone in your life who sparks this desire for self-improvement, they’re not just a source of happiness, but also a catalyst for personal growth.

8) Silence with them is comfortable

In many social situations, silence can be uncomfortable.

We scramble to fill it with small talk and chatter, fearing that silence might indicate a lack of connection or interest.

But when someone brings you real joy, it’s a different story.

With them, silence is not awkward or tense. Instead, it’s comfortable and soothing. It’s a shared space where words are not needed to communicate or connect.

This ability to enjoy quiet moments together signifies a deep level of understanding and comfort. It shows that your connection goes beyond words, thriving in the stillness too.

9) You feel a sense of pride in their accomplishments

It’s one thing to be happy for someone’s success, but when you feel a sense of pride in their achievements, it’s a sign they bring you real joy.

This isn’t about living vicariously through them or taking credit for their accomplishments.

It’s about genuinely celebrating their success because you value them and their happiness matters to you.

Feeling proud of someone else’s achievements indicates a deep emotional connection.

It shows that you care for them, not just for what they can offer you, but for who they are.

10) You’re your happiest self around them

At the end of the day, the clearest sign someone brings you joy is how you feel in their presence.

If being around them consistently lifts your mood, makes you feel loved, valued, and understood, that’s what really matters.

You’re relaxed, you’re comfortable, and most importantly, you’re your happiest self around them.

So, if there’s someone in your life who brings out the best in you and makes your world a happier place, hold onto them. They’re a source of real joy.

Final thoughts: Joy is personal

What brings one person joy may not necessarily have the same effect on another. This uniqueness is, in part, what makes our relationships so special and varied.

Psychology can offer insights into common patterns of behavior that signify joy, but ultimately, you know yourself best.

It’s about being attuned to your feelings and recognizing the individuals who consistently make your world a little brighter.

The ones who, despite the ups and downs of life, manage to bring a spark of joy whenever they’re around.