Untold Powers of the eyes....

It’s old news that our eyes make us see…But have you considered how our eyes speak? 

As the saying goes, “The eyes are the windows to the soul”.  

Eye contact is a crucial part of our non-verbal communication.

Our eyes can tell others we’re listening, interested or not paying attention. 

They can also communicate a whole range of emotions – happiness, anger, boredom, surprise, etc.

In North America – eye contact is often associated with trust. 

People who avoid eye contact can sometimes come across as deceitful. On the other hand, it can also indicate shyness or intimidation.   

Looked at differently, someone who nevertakes their eyes off of you may come across as a bit ‘creepy’ or aggressive.

So if you’re intentionally trying to communicate your trustworthiness, be sure you glance away now and then…or at the very least, blink.

Cultural Differences…

In some East Asian, African and Native North American cultures it is considered disrespectful to look a more senior or dominant person in the eye.

And as a sign of respect, some Middle Eastern cultures also feel there should be limits to the amount of eye contact made between members of the opposite sex (with the exception of spouses and family). 

Animal Alert!!

If ever caught face to face with a bear, giving it the ‘evil eye’ may not help you…

Many mammals including bears, dogs and chimpanzees, instinctively interpret direct eye contact as a threat.