how do you read people's intent/thoughts?

[SearchingforPeace]

I don't know how I do it. I just do it naturally.

On many occasions, I have had people tell me I understand them better than they do themselves, even with modest contact.

Motives and honesty scream at me. Fears and concerns pop out as well.

I try not to read everyone I meet, but even without trying, I can see into people and figure a way to make their life better.

It gets overwhelming at times, especially with large groups.

So, how do I do it? I don't know. Am I right 90+%? Yes.

Can't all INFJs do this?

 

[Forever]

I would see it the same as this:

I am a hippo. Who can flip backwards into a pond.

Can't all hippos flip backwards into a pond?

 

[Coriolis]

I do the same, although body language can convey some useful additional information that I've completely ignored a few years ago.

Some people make use of body language to a much higher extent than some others. People who rely on reading body language too much can easily become confused when meeting a pokerface like me.

Exactly. People who try to read me that way usually get it wrong. I don't assume my skill will be any better than theirs.

 

[Luke O]

Sometimes a thought or phrase will pop into my head and seconds later, the other person will say it. That may be me thinking along the same lines though.

As for intent, I'm not that good with emotions, particularly with two-faced people who there seem to be a lot of.

 

[Cellmold]

Stick your finger in the air and waggle it like you just don't care.

I have thoughts about people's thoughts and intents, but I try to ignore them in favour of actual evidence.

 

[draon9]

You reas their intentions and thoughts by observing their actions body position and certain words that they are using