Do not stalk or smother him. If you suddenly show up everywhere, he will either get suspicious or feel uncomfortable. Make sure he sees you in situations where you’re at your best. For example, if you know you’ll see him at the gym, wear a cute outfit. Or if you’re going to the same party, challenge him to a game of table tennis (or other secret talent!).
Try an activity as small as watching a scary movie or as big as going indoor skydiving. While it’s best to do this one-on-one so he thinks of you when he remembers the feeling, you can also go as a group. Just make sure you get some quality time with him.
You can also invite along your friends so he can meet them as well. Do some background research on his friends before you meet them, by looking at their social media accounts, for example. It’s important to know that Joe just broke up with his girlfriend before you accidentally ask him how she’s doing! If he doesn’t offer to introduce you to his friends and it’s been a couple of weeks, bring it up casually yourself. Say something like, “I was thinking it would be fun to get our friends together to watch the big game this weekend. Want to?” Never badmouth or make fun of his friends. Even if he does it first, don’t take it as an invitation to join in. If you have nothing nice to say, don’t say anything at all.
Do this subtly so it’s not forced or obvious. For instance, you could talk about how today is your parents’ wedding anniversary or ask if he saw the new romantic comedy that just came out, too. Say something like, “I love that new movie with Jennifer Lawrence. Rom coms are just so cute!” You can also use images or sounds, like by turning on a love song playlist when he’s around or wearing a cute heart T-shirt.
Don’t stare at him for too long or you’ll scare him. Every so often, glance away, then drag your eyes back to him to break it up. You can also add a flirty eyelash flutter. Blinking a lot is a natural reaction when you like someone, so it subtly shows that you’re into him.
For example, if he has his chin propped on his hands on the table, do the same. This applies when you’re walking together, too. Speed up or slow down to match his pace. Don’t imitate every single thing he does. Make your behaviors seem natural instead of creepy by mimicking every couple of movements instead.
Make your touches seem accidental if you don’t want to be too obvious. For instance, graze his arm when you get up to get a drink or brush his foot under the table. Keep your touching above the waist so you don’t cross any boundaries or make him feel uncomfortable. Arms, shoulders, and face are safe spots if you aren’t sure.
For example, if he likes being told that he’s special, make sure you say things like, “Thanks for helping me with my homework. You’re so smart!” or “I love the way you always know how to cheer me up. "
Think about your strengths, too. If you’re a great listener, you can be the person he tells all of his deepest feelings to. For example, if he always mentions how he has trouble talking to his guy friends when he’s sad, you can say something like, “I’m always here if you need someone to talk to. I won’t judge!” Don’t try to “fix” him. There’s a difference between being there for someone versus trying to change them into who you think they should be.
Start small, then share bigger, deeper things about yourself as the relationship progresses. For example, on the first date, you might confess that you love trashy reality shows. Then on the 10th date, you might tell him about your parents’ divorce.
Don’t try to be someone you’re not. Instead, improve the parts of you that you don’t like. For example, instead of spending your weekend stalking his ex on Instagram, use that time to work on your painting skills. He’s more likely to fall for a girl who has passions and interests and loves herself first.
