The idea of using body language to detect when a person is lying might seem like a bit of fun.

But when you give it a little more thought, it can actually equip you very well for modern living.

Perhaps your plumber is giving you a long-winded excuse for why it's going to take him at least 5 hours to do the job.

Or maybe your doctor is scratching his nose or touching his face when you ask him if those really are the best choice of drugs he could prescribe for your condition...

Lookout for these telltale signs to spot when someone is  lying to you...

I did some research into the art of reading body language and was
surprised to find it’s used regularly by people in courts of law and in business.

These are the eight signs to look out for are:

1. A change in the way the person is speaking: the speed or pitch of their voice.
2. The use of more 'umming' and 'ahhing' than usual.
3. Somebody avoiding eye contact suddenly or looking into your eyes more than usual. But note that pathological liars are particularly good at making sincere eye contact when lying.
4. Unusual or excessive fidgeting.
5. Touching or scratching parts of their face.
6. Turning their body away from you.
7. Giving long-winded explanations for things.
8. Body language that contradicts what they’re saying. For example: saying they’re happy but not being able to smile sincerely.

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One thing to be aware of, however, is that some of these signs can also be symptoms of nervousness rather than lying. Look out for at least two signs before you get suspicious.

If you suspect somebody of lying, try showing some signs of doubt about what they’re saying.

If they start defending themselves too forcefully it may be a clear sign that they are lying (“the lady doth protest too much, methinks”). Push them for more detailed specifics and they may begin to squirm...
 

Here’s to your happiness and wellbeing,

Pascale Barrow
Managing Editor of Personal & Finance Confidential