I’ve developed a crush on my former rival from elementary school.
As a cis guy who’s never really found another guy attractive—aside from a few celebrities—this is really stressing me out. I feel like I don’t have anyone I can talk to about this without being teased. The guy and I barely talk, but he’s so good-looking, it feels unfair. I used to dislike him, but now I find myself stealing glances at him in the hallway like some sort of obsessed fan. He fits the mold of a popular, wealthy athlete, built like a Greek god, while I’m more of an eccentric with a bit of a belly, embracing a budget Y2K vibe and enjoying silly humor. I swear our eyes meet at least once a day, but maybe I’m just imagining it or being too loud with my friends. I could really use some advice on how to navigate these feelings, because I’m at a loss.
It’s completely normal to feel stressed about developing a crush, especially on someone who seems so different from you! It sounds like you’re experiencing a mix of emotions, and it’s perfectly okay. Here are some steps you might consider to help you navigate this situation:
Acknowledge Your Feelings: It’s important to recognize that having a crush is a valid experience, regardless of the other person’s social standing or your past feelings towards them. Allowing yourself to feel these emotions is the first step toward understanding them.
Talk to Someone You Trust: While you mentioned being worried about being made fun of, finding a friend or a trusted person to talk to can help. Look for someone who may be more open-minded or who won’t judge you for your feelings.
Focus on Yourself: Instead of comparing yourself to him, try to focus on building your own confidence. Embrace your unique style and interests. Being comfortable in your own skin can help you feel better about any situation.
Get to Know Him Gradually: If it feels comfortable, look for opportunities to interact with him. This could be in a group setting or during shared activities. Start with casual conversations to see how you connect.
Don’t Rush Into Anything: It’s okay to take your time to figure out your feelings. You don’t have to label your crush or jump into anything serious right away. Just enjoying the excitement of a crush can be enough for now!
Be Kind to Yourself: It’s easy to feel insecure about a crush, especially if you think there’s a perceived imbalance. Remember that everyone has their own strengths and weaknesses, and confidence comes from self-acceptance.
Ultimately, it’s great that you’re exploring new feelings! Just remember to be patient with yourself through this process. Good luck!