Having a crush can be difficult to navigate. For starters, you never know whether or not your crush even likes you back or if they’re thinking about you as much as you think about them (which, can be a heartwrenching thought). And though having a crush is completely harmless, there’s still a lot that goes into how to approach someone you like without completely blowing it (trust me, we’ve been there too)≥ Whether you have a crush on someone you’ve just met or have been talking to them for a while, how do we actually go about telling someone we like them?
All in all, when it comes to figuring out how to tell someone you like them, we should first address the dynamic of the relationship. Are you falling head over heels for one of your friends or have you possibly dated someone for a while and are starting to develop feelings for them? By addressing the dynamic and complexity of the relationship, this can help you determine whether or not you should discuss those feelings with your love interest.
Ahead are a few ways to tell someone you like them.
Choose the Right Time and Place
Let’s be real, telling someone we like them is not the easiest of tasks, but when we’re thinking about discussing our feelings, timing here is essential. Are you thinking about telling them during a hectic or busy time or perhaps a time when they may be going through something difficult in their lives? Before jumping the gun, look for a moment when you both are relaxed, grounded and have some privacy. When telling a crush or your person of interest that you like them, it’s best to have this conversation in person. But if that’s not possible, a phone or video call can work too.
Use “I” Statements
Frame your statement in terms of your feelings and experiences. For example, say, “I wanted to let you know that I’ve really enjoyed spending time with you, and would love to continue getting to know you better beyond just friends.” This is a great way to let someone know that you want to explore a romantic relationship with them in a subtle and less anxious way.
Be Specific
While mentioning your feelings for someone, being specific about what you like about them is a great way to show that your feelings are past the surface level. Start off by mentioning qualities, characteristics, or moments that made you smile.
Stay Calm and Confident
Confidence is attractive, but don’t come across as too aggressive or overbearing. When telling someone you like them, remain grounded, calm and collected. This is an attractive way to get your point across while showing your person a confident side about you.
Respect Their Response
Understand that the other person may not feel the same way about you, and that’s okay. When sharing your feelings, be prepared for any response, whether it’s positive or not. And though this part can hurt, it’s important to respect their feelings and decisions.
Give Them Space
If the person needs time to process your confession or if they need space, respect their wishes. Don’t pressure them for an immediate response as this can further drive them away. Remember, if it’s meant to be it will.
Stay Friends (if applicable)
If the person doesn’t share the same feelings as you, that’s okay. You can still value their friendship and the role they play in your life. However, if your confession negatively affects the dynamic of the relationship, it may be best to move on accordingly. If you feel as though a friendship can’t work moving forward and the relationship has moved to a weird place, letting go of the dynamic is not only healthy but will help to benefit you in the future.
Continue Communication
After you share your feelings, it may take some time for the other person to get to where you are, however, when you continue to communicate openly and honestly, this can help to build a healthy dynamic between the two of you. If you can, try to keep the lines of communication open to see where things may lead, you never know what the end result could be.