On several occasions I’ve seen students on social networks trying, and failing, to subtly state that they want to be in a relationship. Not only is it limited to the, “Oh it’s cuddling weather and all I have is my pillow pet” Facebook statuses, I’ve also heard students saying how they want a boyfriend or girlfriend to do cute things with, like getting matching sweaters or walking hand in hand to each and every class together.
Personally, I don’t see appeal in these types of things and maybe I’m odd like that, but for those of you who are seeking to woo that cute girl in class or convince that boy on the basketball team to take you to prom, I have a couple tips for you. I’ve made some observations on my friends who have fallen in and out of “love” and noticed things that they missed; keep in mind I’m not a relationship guru in any sense, so you might want to take my advice, if you take it at all, with a grain of salt.
Spark up conversation
If you aren’t already friends with your (hopefully) soon to be special someone, you need to make sure your crush acknowledges your existence. We’re at a school of around 2000 students, and being the kid who lent him/her a pencil that one time in math class isn’t exactly a great way to make yourself noticed.
If you’re thinking “Wow he/she is so cute how do I even talk to a person like that,” take a moment and give yourself an imaginary slap in the face. A person, no matter how cute, is still a person. Assuming you have minimal social skills (if you don’t, that’s another article completely) it shouldn’t be difficult to introduce yourself. Make an effort to engage in conversation, whether it be in class, during club meetings or even on Facebook.
If you find out you two have common interests, you’re on the right track. However, just because you two don’t like the exact same color and type of music doesn’t mean you aren’t compatible.
Dazzle on a date
Once you’ve established a friendship with him/her, you two are probably comfortable talking to each other through social networks, texting or at school. However, face to face conversation between just the two of you is completely different. The time you used to have before replying on Facebook is gone. Don’t see this as a bad thing though; the best way to get to know is a person is to see what they’re like alone. As cliché as it seems, the movie theatre is a good place for a first date. Guys, let the girl chose the movie, but don’t be afraid to give your opinion unless you want to spend two hours watching a sappy, romantic comedy. As for the girls, take into consideration the kind of movies he would like, but don’t suggest anything you wouldn’t want to see. You two should spend the day enjoying each others’ company, and assuming all went well, be want to hang out again soon.
The Big Move
By now, the two of you have probably gone on quite a few dates and had fun on each one. If you aren’t sure if the other person has feelings for you, consider asking your friends (assuming they’re all honest and reliable, if you don’t have any friends like this you should probably consider reevaluating your friendships).
Also, consider asking the friends of your crush too; if he/she likes you, his/her friends will probably want to tell you. Once the emotional green light goes off, get moving! Usually, boys should be the one asking girls out, but whoever is confident enough to take initiative should do so. Don’t rush through the planning process to get it over with. Asking someone to be your boyfriend or girlfriend should be a memorable, and hopefully pleasant, experience. Do something thoughtful that the both of you will remember and will earn hundreds of likes on Facebook and Instagram (let’s be honest, deep inside everyone wants hundreds of likes). Remember to give me credits for being oh so helpful when your relationship starts (and please don’t hurt me if I failed you miserably)!