The science on signatures is mixed, with some studies saying it is more reliable than others. But many people are convinced by it and a number of graphologists swear by their results. A lot more research needs to be done, but some of the cues are intriguing.
Cue 1 – Angle
When you sign your name – does it follow an invisible line on the page, and does that line slope one way or the other? An ascending signature is said to be a sign of ambition, optimism, creativity and vitality. A descending signature is a sign of a sceptic, feelings of being down or depressed are indicative of this type of signature. A straight signature is a sign of balance and control, you are likely very organised and self-sufficient.
Cue 2 – Size
A recent study linked a big signature to narcissism, by analysing the signatures of 500 company CFOs. It found that the CFOs with the largest signatures were more likely to bend the truth by misreporting the company’s earnings or relaxing internal controls. This doesn’t necessarily mean that if you have a big signature you are a narcissist, but there is a link between signature size and confidence. Conversely, a small signature indicates someone who underestimates themselves and believes that few people value them or their opinions.
Cue 3 – Legibility
Illegible signatures indicate quick minds and people who are not bogged down by details. According to analysts’ people with these signatures, which are quite common, tend to be in a rush and can sometimes be careless.
Cue 4 – Incomplete
An incomplete signature is when you sign with just your initials, first name or a nickname. This is a sign of independence and efficiency. It can also indicate a very private person.
Cue 5 – Embellishments
Curly cues, hearts, underlines and dashes are said to be signs of determination, drive and persistence.
There are many more cues that experts use when analysing signatures and handwriting. If you want a detailed breakdown you can visit this blog from Brightside with a detailed infographic of many different signature types.
There are also some warning signs hidden in certain types of signatures. Handwriting experts at Write Choice in particular note that strike through signatures, with lines running all the way through the signature, indicates major self-esteem issues and depression. It can even indicate self-hatred and an inclination to punish oneself.
A trace-back signature where the underline runs from the end of the signature back to the beginning indicates someone who lives in the past, and they fail to let go of anything associated with their past whether it is good or bad.
Looking at famous signatures – experts can read a lot into the signatures of personalities. Here are some examples. For a full list visit this post at Digital Synopsis.
So are you happy with your signature? What do you think it says about you? There’s nothing wrong with changing it. Most people develop a signature in their mid-teens, and while it may evolve slightly over time, so do our personalities! You can always choose what you want to project into the world with your signature.
