He's likely trying to impress you and wants to look his best.
Self-grooming, especially when a guy notices you or your presence, can be a significant indicator of attraction or a desire to make a good impression. It's a nonverbal cue that he's conscious of how he appears to you.
Here's a breakdown of possible reasons:
- Attraction: As the reference mentions, humans often try to look their best around someone they are attracted to. Grooming in your presence might be a way of subtly signaling his interest.
- Desire to Impress: He could be trying to project an image of confidence, competence, or attractiveness. Subconsciously, he wants you to see him in a positive light.
- Nervousness: Sometimes, self-grooming can be a nervous habit. He might be unconsciously fixing his hair or adjusting his clothes because he's feeling anxious or self-conscious around you.
- Habit: While less likely if it's a noticeable change in behavior, some individuals have habitual grooming behaviors that aren't necessarily tied to any specific person.
Context is key to understanding the true meaning. Consider:
- Frequency: Is this a one-time occurrence, or does it happen frequently when you're around? Frequent grooming is a stronger indicator of attraction.
- Other Body Language: Pay attention to other cues like eye contact, smiling, and body posture. These can provide a more complete picture of his feelings.
- His Personality: Is he generally a well-groomed person, or is this a noticeable change in behavior?
Ultimately, the reason he's grooming himself in front of you can depend on a variety of factors, but it often points towards an underlying desire to impress.