CRUSHES

We all know *that* feeling. You see your crush walking your way. You’re blushing, smiling like crazy and there are more than a few butterflies in your stomach. You want to say something to him, but you just can’t do it. It's much too scary.

There are plenty of things that you can do to get over your fear of talking to guys. But the only tried and true method? Actually just talking to them. Once you do that, you'll realize that you'll still blush and you'll still smile, but those butterflies won't be quite so out of control.

Here are some things to remember and do when it comes to talking to guys:

1. Guys are just people 
Talking to them is no different than talking to anyone else.  

2. Give him a compliment
When you meet someone new, compliments can be a great way to break the ice and make everyone happy. It shows that you're interested in him. Plus, it'll make him smile! He'll associate that good feeling with you.  

3. Find something in common
Whether you live in the same neighborhood, are on the same swim teams or hit up the same fro-yo place on Thursdays, finding something you two have in common will make that intial convo flow a lot easier.  

4. Ask him a question
People like to talk about themselves! Ask him how his day was, or what he thought of the science teacher you'll have next year. Like giving a guy a compliment, asking a Q shows that you care about him and what he thinks.  

5. Hit him up with a text
If talking face-to-face is way too much to handle right now, consider shooting him a text or send him a Snap! Just make sure you have an idea of where you want the conversation to go after you send the initial "Hey."

6. Invite him to hang out in a group
If you and your friends are planning on going to the waterpark this weekend, why not invite the guy you're interested in to come along? Having a group of people around will give you an easy escape route if things get a little awkward—just don't invite him then totally avoid him.  

7. Go easy on yourself
Remember, you're not asking this guy to marry you—or even to prom. You're just getting to know him. Take a deep breath. It doesn't have to be a huge deal.  

8. Fake it till you make it! 
*Always* remember to smile and act confident—even though you might not feel that way! Eventually, you really will start to feel confident and talking to cute guys will get that much easier.  

What’s your *best* tip for approaching a new guy? Clue us in in the comments!

by Aly Prouty | 7/22/2017