So, you’ve started flirting — maybe with a smile, a playful question, or some light teasing.

Now you may be wondering:

Are they flirting, too? Or are they just being friendly? Nice? Polite?

Most people think flirting is one thing: seductive, sexy, maybe a little bold.

But that’s only one style of flirting. And for many people, it’s the least natural.

Most people believe they need to feel confident before they flirt, or that it only “counts” if it leads to something. But flirting isn’t a test you pass or fail. It’s a social skill. And like any skill, we all start out as bumbling beginners. You practice, get feedback, tweak things, and try again.