Crushing 🫣

Oh, the feels! Having a crush is an emotional rollercoaster, isn't it? One minute you're daydreaming, the next you're overthinking every single interaction. And for so many of us, the biggest hurdle isn't just having the crush, but finding the courage to actually tell them how you feel. I totally get it. That feeling of wanting to pour your heart out, but your voice just gets stuck, or your stomach does flip-flops just thinking about it. It’s like there’s a giant invisible wall between your feelings and your words. It's incredibly common to "lack the courage" to tell your crush. There are so many reasons why we hold back. Maybe it's the fear of rejection – the thought that things might get awkward, or worse, that a friendship could be ruined. Or perhaps, like the sentiment in my collage that says, "I'd be his, if he asked," there's that deep hope that they'll just know or make the first move themselves. It feels safer to wait, doesn't it? To hope for a sign, a glance, or a lucky moment like seeing those repeated numbers (like '22:22 *444*') and wishing it means something. But what happens when they don't ask? What if they're just as shy as you are, or completely oblivious to your feelings? While waiting for them to make a move can feel like the safest option, sometimes we have to meet them halfway – even if it's just a tiny step. You don't have to write a dramatic love letter or confess your undying affection in a grand gesture right away. Start small! If you’re struggling with courage, try these subtle ways to show interest without putting all your cards on the table: Make eye contact and smile: A genuine smile can go a long way. If they smile back, that's a positive sign! Engage in casual conversation: Ask about their day, a class, or something you both have in common. Keep it light and friendly. Find common ground: Do you both like a certain band, movie, or hobby? Use it as an excuse to talk more. Offer a compliment: "I really liked your presentation today!" or "That outfit looks great on you!" Keep it sincere and not overly intense. Be present: When you're around them, put your phone away and really listen when they speak. Show genuine interest in what they're saying. Building your confidence around them is key. The more comfortable you are just being yourself around your crush, the easier it becomes to potentially take that next step. Observe their reactions. Do they seem happy to see you? Do they try to prolong conversations? These little cues can give you a better idea of where you stand and might just give you that extra boost of bravery. Ultimately, whether you decide to wait for them to make a move or gather the courage for a small confession, remember that your feelings are valid. It's okay to feel shy, and it's okay to hope for a fairytale moment. But also, it's empowering to take control of your own narrative, even if it's just by sending a friendly text or striking up a longer conversation. You never know what might happen until you take that tiny leap of faith. And hey, even if it doesn't work out exactly as you'd hoped, you'll learn something valuable about yourself and your courage along the way.