Guide to Overcoming Awkwardness Around Your Crush: Social Skills for Success
Understanding Awkwardness in Relationships
Feelings of awkwardness and nervousness around a crush are very common. About 60% of adolescence and young adults report experiencing these feelings at some point.Recognize that these feelings are a natural part of developing a relationship, but they can be managed and reduced with the right strategies. This article provides a comprehensive guide on how to overcome awkwardness naturally and confidently.
Method 1: Maintaining Normalcy Around Your Crush
Behaving Normally: It is essential to act naturally and maintain your usual behavior when you're around your crush. This includes dealing with your nervousness in a way that doesn't stand out to others.
Act Moderately Occupied: This can be achieved by having items in your possession to keep you busy. These items include a book or magazine, a pen and sketchbook, and a cell phone. Use these to show that you are approaching the situation casually and not immediately jumping into a romantic or intimate mode.
Pretend the Person Is Not There: Act unaffected by your crush's presence. If you manage to appear normally engaged in your activities, you will appear confident and not too eager. Remember, people are generally self-focused and less likely to scrutinize your behavior.
Appearing Amused: Show slight amusement or interest by giving your crush sly looks, then diverting your attention elsewhere. Keep your face and eyes slightly smiling when catching their gaze.
Accept the Worst: Understand that the worst possible outcome from your nervous behavior is not life-threatening. Accepting the bigger picture can help you relax and focus on the present rather than worrying about potential embarrassment. People are more concerned with their own lives than yours.
Announce What You Are Doing: Highlight your actions to show that you are being your usual self. Acknowledging your presence can lead to a more natural interaction.
Say Hello: Greet your crush with a casual "hello" or even a wave or smile. Nothing detrimental will happen, and it is a normal social interaction.
Take simple steps to make new friends with your crush's friends. This can also help alleviate nervous feelings by bringing you closer to your crush. Ensure you do not flirt, as this could create unwanted attention or jealousy.
Method 2: Acting Normally Around an Identity Crush
Recognize Your Crush: An identity crush is often less romantic and more about admiring attributes of someone. Recognize if you are experiencing this type of crush. It could be someone who is a leader or someone whose strengths and qualities you admire.
Ask to Hang Out: This allows for a chance to develop a friendship without making it seem overly enthusiastic or romantic. You could suggest activities such as playing music, going bowling, or playing sports like golf or laser tag.
Evaluate Their Character: Consider the crush's character and try to understand if the admiration is for the right reasons. Sometimes, the environment in which you want to fit in might not be positive. Reflect on the values and actions of the person and decide if spending time with them aligns with your goals and principles.
Invite Them to Hang Out with Your Friends: This can further deepen your relationship in a natural setting while also giving you the opportunity to get to know your crush better on a one-to-one basis.
Method 3: Decompressing Away from Your Crush
Practice Talking to Other People: Small talk and conversations with others can help you become more comfortable in social situations. Initiating conversations with someone you find attractive and then looking for similar opportunities can boost your confidence. For instance, asking for a stick of gum from a person you find cute can be a good start.
Speak to a Family Member: Parents or trusted relatives can offer valuable advice and support. They can provide a safe space to share your feelings and receive guidance. If you are uncomfortable with your parents, reach out to an aunt, uncle, or sibling who is supportive.
Keep a Journal: Writing down your thoughts and emotions can be therapeutic. This allows you to reflect on your feelings and understand them better, which can gradually reduce your discomfort around your crush. Just write freely and express yourself without concern for grammar or spelling. Consider keeping your journal in a private place.
Participate in Extracurricular Activities: Engaging in after-school clubs or sports can help you distance yourself from your crush while also reducing stress. Physical activities can improve your mental state, which can make it easier to manage your feelings when around your crush.
By practicing these methods, you can gradually become more comfortable and less awkward around your crush, leading to a more natural and fulfilling relationship.