You love the way your partner is able to read between the lines and figure out what you really need. Not to mention what a great listener he is. But is it possible to have too much of a good thing? Here’s how to tell if you’re dating an empath.
Are You Dating an Empath? Here Are 8 Subtle Ways to Tell
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Published Dec 20, 2018
1. You Only Just Arrived At Your Friend’s Party And He Already Wants To Leave.
Although empaths and introverts are different, they do share some similarities—namely that they find socializing exhausting. For empaths, it’s because they naturally absorb other people’s emotions like a sponge (whether good or bad), which makes large social gatherings especially taxing.
2. He Changes The Channel Anytime A Quentin Tarantino Movie Comes On.
Sure, you may turn on the TV to relax with a blockbuster, but empaths find violent TV shows or movies (even if they’re totally fictional) emotionally draining. (Hey, maybe try watching something a little more uplifting instead.)
3. You Avoid Complaining To Him About Your Crappy Day At Work.
Because when you’re upset, he gets upset, too. But keeping quiet about your emotions isn’t the solution (and an empath will pick up on what you’re feeling anyway). The key is to find a way of communicating that works for both of you. Maybe it’s as simple as prefacing your rant with a “I’m over it now but I’d like to tell you about what happened today.” Try a few different methods of talking about the tough stuff and check in regularly with your S.O. to see how they’re handling things.
4. You Asked Him To Pick Up Your Dry Cleaning All The Way Across Town And He Did It (even Though He Clearly Didn’t Want To).
Empaths have trouble with boundaries and find it difficult to say no to people. Note: This doesn’t mean you should take advantage. Again, honest communication is everything here.
5. Sometimes, It Feels Like He’s Pushing You Away.
Not so—empaths just really need their alone time in order to get a break from absorbing so many emotions. This one’s not actually about you (and definitely doesn’t mean you’re headed for Splitsville), so just give them the space they need.
Empaths don’t respond well to criticism, which can make you feel like you have to walk around on eggshells. But if there’s one thing empaths hate, it’s phonies. So, instead of lying (“Wow, this sauce is delicious”), be honest in a nice and constructive way (“I love that you cooked for me—maybe next time, you could add less salt”).
7. You Kind Of Feel Like He Loves His Dog More Than You.
Empaths are very connected to animals and nature. Why? Because furry friends and plants have less toxic energy to absorb. Try not to take it personally.
8. He’s Totally In Tune With What You’re Feeling…before You Even Tell Him What’s Wrong.
Sure, dating an empath can be tricky at times, but there are plenty of amazing perks, too. Like how he totally just gets what you’re going through.
A note from our editor: If you think you could be an empath or that you’re dating one, talk to a mental health professional for more information.
