Cues that a person is ready to leave, such as gathering belongings or angling the feet outward.
Toward the end of a meeting a person quietly closes a notebook and turns the feet to the door. The body begins to leave before the person has said a word about going.
Read these signals as a wish to conclude, and respond by drawing the exchange to a close. When belongings are gathered and the feet turn away, the person is ready to move on.
People sometimes ready themselves early out of habit, so confirm before assuming impatience. A tidy person may pack up out of routine rather than any wish to escape.
Movements that mark the end of a topic, such as a slap of the knees or a firm exhale.
ExploreA clearing action such as a deep breath or straightening up that marks a fresh start.
ExploreSmall shifts that appear at the moment a person settles on a choice.
Explore