Transitioning from Friendship to Dating: Expert Advice
Falling in love is easy, no doubt. Some really contend that a relationship’s most basic component is this one. It makes sense that if the person you have fallen in love with met you either on a dating app for man or a dating app for women, then commitment, compatibility, and trust are the things that usually prove more challenging to control. That’s most likely the reason you formed a crush: you know them down to their heart and enjoy what you see. Changing from friends to lovers, unfortunately, is not always a stroll in the park.
As per experts, from just friends to dating, it’s not difficult; yet, Dr. Sterling advises you to be careful before expressing any emotions and jeopardizing the unique connection you already have. “It’s important to realize that you cross the Rubicon the minute you expose your emotions,” she explains. Dr. Sterling notes that communication will be the key to surviving the awkward transition period if you have previously done some serious soul-searching and determined it is worth pursuing a romantic relationship with a friend.
Signs You Should Move From Friends to Lovers in Your Relationship
Ask Questions to Yourself
Give yourself time to think about the decision to put yourself ahead. First, one has to look at the fundamental issues. Are you looking for the same type of relationship? Are you both single or using a mature dating app? Dr. Sterling says that if the responses to either of those queries are “no,” the danger is most likely not worth it. She notes, “Relationships are already challenging to maintain when people are compatible.” By trying to alter the game under these conditions, you probably will sour the friendship you now have. You should rely on deeper level of questions to know your state of mind better.
Understand Signs of Flirting
There are several signs you may look for to help you decide whether or not your friend might also be interested in progressing things. “We humans are not great at hiding our emotions,” Dr. Sterling notes. “We tease. We touch. We go complement one another. Look for flirting indicators like a gentle touch on the arm, eye contact, or leaning in throughout the discussion. There’s a good chance your best friend feels the same way if they are pushing any of this your way.
Discover a Playful Approach to Tackle the Topic
Once you’ve determined that expressing your emotions is the appropriate action for you, it’s time to figure out the best approach to doing so. Dr. Sterling advises beginning the conversation lightheartedly, perhaps with a 20-question game. “Ensure that one of the questions you ask is, ‘Have you ever had feelings for a close friend?'” she says. “If the response is “yes,” you may inquire much more precisely, asking, “What would your advice be to someone who has affection for a close friend?” It’s a humorous, flirty, and playful approach to finding out how they feel as you get ready to expose your own.
Be Direct
When transitioning from friendship to a romantic relationship, being loyal is of utmost significance. Yet moving from a best friend to an intimate relationship is a danger. Starting straight forward is the best approach to negotiating this unexplored ground. That implies defining the kind of connection you intend to have. Are you seeking anything long-term, or are you in the friends-with-benefits circumstances? Starting now will help you both go deliberately forward by addressing these questions.
Graceful Handling of Unreciprocated Emotions
There are high chances of getting hurt when most of the things seem worth fighting for. Dr. Sterling suggests that a sense of humour should be applied in such a situation to manage the situation well. Once the stress is released, you can say you value the friendship and are ready to learn how they view what you have told them. Make clear that you wish to ensure the friendship is intact before you can start to move on.
Final Thoughts
Finally, moving from friendship to a passionate connection calls for both open communication and careful thought. Pursuing deeper emotions with someone you trust can be thrilling, but it’s also vital to be honest with both of you. Make sure you both want the same things; then, search for minute indicators that they might share. When it comes time to share your feelings, approach it deliberately and straightforwardly. If your emotions have not been returned, treat them gracefully, give the friendship top priority, and let both of you have the freedom to go forward in harmony.