CRUSHES

So you fell...hard. You are *absolutely* crushing. We know how it feels. Isn't it weird how you can feel so simultaneously happy but also like you might throw up at any given moment? Trust, we can relate. So maybe that crush is brand-new or maybe you're thiiiiis close to finally making that move. Wherever you might be, we promise, this is some advice you're gonna want to hear.

It's totally ok (and oh-so-normal) to be nervous

We're pretty sure we'd be more weirded out if you weren't! Nobody is ever effortlessly casual in front of their crushes, and we all have our own stories of awkward moments and scared silences. Trust, it's actually one of the best-kept secrets about crushing. *Everyone* is feeling or has felt the way you do now, which makes the thought of crushing on someone that much easier to navigate. So let yourself be nervous sometimes! But...

Don't stress so much you forget why you like them

It can be so easy to get in your head when it comes to crushes, so whenever you get a little too nervous, take a breath; If you like them, there's obviously a reason why! Crushes can be exciting and nerve-wracking (been there! It's both the best and worst feeling ever), but don't let yourself get in your head so much you forget that cutie in your chem class caught your eye because of their *amaze* sense of humor and how nice they are, not because they are a superhuman wayyyy out of reach. We promise it'll be 10 times easier to talk to them when you can take a step back and cut yourself some slack. So...

Don't be afraid to make the first move

This doesn't always mean you need to make a big promposal (although if that is your plan, you go, girlfriend!). It can be as simple as sitting next to them in class or sending the first text, or—why not?—get their Snap and start a streak. Think about how amazing you would feel if your crush made the first move with you, and know that more likely than not, that's how your crush will feel if you send that first DM. And remember...

You don't have to rush

If you're ready to make a move, absolutely go for it! But someone once told us about a tortoise and a hare? Let's be clear, we aren't saying you should never pursue your crush if you're really feeling it, we're simply saying that whatever pressure you might be putting on yourself to find a happily ever after ASAP might be what's making this crush especially tricky. So give yourself some space. If sparks start flying between you two, you shouldn't speed something so sweet. And while you're at it...

Remember: You are awesome

OK, we know it sounds cheesy, but it's true. We know you're a catch—make sure you know it, too! We don't have to tell you how hard it can be sometimes to remind yourself that you are so worthy, so please take this as a sign—you absolutely are. And here's the magical thing: When you truly know how wonderful you are, other people see it too. So radiate that good energy, girlfriend. Who can resist a girl who shines?

What's your fave piece of crush advice? Tell us on our socials @girlslifemag! 

More crush content right this way...
💖 11 random (but cute) convo starters to text your crush
💖 So your ex just got into a relationship. What's next?
💖 5 green flags to look for in a new relationship
Slider: @charlidamelio
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by Erin Sargent | 11/26/2023