How to Avoid the Friend Zone – Transition Beyond Friendship
Are you someone who wants a romantic relationship but tends to get friend-zoned every time? So, how to avoid the friend zone? It can be torturous for sure because it is a very unusual zone between two people. One wants to become a potential romantic partner, while the other believes only in friendship. Critical right? If you are stuck in this vicious circle, this article is meant for you!
Tips on How to Avoid the Friend Zone
Here are some steps for you to entangle this twist.
1. Think about yourself
Enough of thinking about your friend, especially the one who doesn’t reciprocate your feelings. It’s now the chance to think about yourself.
Prioritize your health and well-being. Stick to your plans, and don’t mend them for anybody. Alternatively, make it very clear to another person that you have moved on. This is the time to live the best life! This little “hit-and-miss” might make them miss you, and you never know if they might consider you.
2. Introspect and make a decision
One key tip when it comes to how to avoid the friend zone is introspection. You’ve been following this person for a while now, and clearly, they haven’t reciprocated.
Before changing the friendly dynamics, ask yourself – are they the one? Do you both share the same values? Do you think your relationship would sail through – if at all it kickstarts. This is the time to introspect and make the right decision. There’s no point crying later.
3. Don’t place yourself in a “needy” mode
It’s evident that you care abundantly for the person. But don’t let the person take you for granted. Don’t get into that “needy” or “helpless” mode where they will ignore your choices and preferences. Don’t crave their attention; make them chase you for a while. It might just work!
4. Start going on dates with other people
Yes, you loved your friend, and your world revolved around them. But now, it’s time to shift focus. Start going on dates with other people. It’s a great deviation from sadness. And probably, you might find someone who really cares for you and reciprocates your feelings.
And if at all your friend feels jealous about this whole setup, isn’t it a win-win situation for you?
5. Boost your confidence
Boosting your confidence is the best way to become the best version of yourself. Choose a healthy lifestyle. Start working out—if you have stopped at all due to this sadness. Start pursuing your hobbies and look forward to activities that will boost your personal growth.
Focus on your professional life and start building a “dream” life. You never know; they might find you interesting. However, don’t do all these things to impress your friend. Please do it for yourself. Prioritize yourself.
6. Maintain some boundaries
When we say boundaries, we mean you must maintain some distance. As a friend, you have always been available for them, right? Now, it’s time to distance yourself a bit. Spend time with other friends or, once in a while, go for some solo activities. Create some fun buzz, which will urge them to message you.
However, that doesn’t mean you go entirely into silence. You simply have to make them realize that your world doesn’t revolve around them—you have your own life, too!
7. Try some couple activities
If you don’t want to be tagged as a “friend,” break that image by planning some fun couple activities. If they are into adventure – plan an adventure trip or go for adventure sports like bungee jumping. If not adventure, go for some fun activities like pottery, painting, singing, salsa dancing, etc.
But choose activities that will bring you closer to them. Let there be room to spark mutual attraction.
8. Start getting close – physically
You have known them well mentally. Now, it’s time to get a little touchy-feely. Start getting a bit intimate. When we say “bit,” it means actually going slow. Don’t just grab them. Instead, pay attention to their body language—are they liking those touchy moments or staying away from you? Tease them before going for bold moves like cuddling.
9. Flirt a bit
Now it’s time to put on the flirty hat. Don’t just speak; show through actions that you genuinely care. Get in action instead of going for sweet talks. Help them with their tasks, and between the tasks, compliment them on their personality. Talk about their sense of humor, how they talk, how they manage their expenses, etc.
But of course, don’t overdo it. Keep it subtle. Besides, please don’t go for cheesy compliments that will force them to maintain distance from you. Understand that the more sincere you are, the more swift the transition will be!
10. Let them know your true intentions
It’s time to reveal THE PLAN. Yes, it’s time for you to share your true intentions. Tell them you are not interested in being in the friend zone. You are expecting more and concrete. Tell them compassionately and honestly what they mean to you. Explain to them the timeline of your feelings, like how and when this all started.
While doing all this, let them know you value their decision and your friendship. In fact, give them space to think about this whole transformation because it can shock them.
11. Manage both positive and negative response
If they say YES, then cheers to new beginnings. Don’t delay, and plan romantic dates. Plan activities that they like the most, and don’t forget to add a romantic touch to them. Moreover, if everything works, it’s time to go a step further in intimacy. If they are comfortable, don’t hesitate for a warm cuddle and kiss. Confess your true feelings.
However, if they reject your proposal, don’t feel sad. Accept it like a mature person. If you need some time to process the whole fiasco, take it. If distancing yourself from them helps, do it. This is the time to pamper yourself mentally and physically. Shift focus on yourself and try getting back stronger and better.
Over to you…
So, how to avoid the friend zone? We have given you enough tips and tricks. If you think we have missed anything, do let us know. Well, have you ever been friend-zoned? How does it feel? How did you get over it, or did you enjoy it? Do let us know!