Research shows that individuals tend to underestimate how much they are liked by others, especially if they are self-critical. Our brains have a negativity bias, leading us to believe others perceive us more negatively than they actually do. It is advisable to assume that people like you because this mindset can lead to warmer interactions and positive outcomes. On the contrary, individuals who are sensitive to rejection may unknowingly exhibit behaviors that result in actual rejection, creating a self-fulfilling prophecy of being rejected. Thus, assuming that one is liked can lead to more positive interactions and relationships.