How to handle a crush on your best friend

The trick to revealing your crush is to do it in a way that doesn't jeopardize the friendship. This game plan will help.

Step 1: Look for signs they feel the same way
Look for signs your friend feels the same way – like stealing glances at you when they don’t think you’ll notice, or touching you on the arm or shoulder when they’re speaking to you.

If their pupils become bigger when they look into your eyes, it means they’re physically attracted to you.

Step 2: Drop some hints
Give them some clear openings. For instance, if they’re complaining about a bad date, make a joke that maybe you two should be dating instead.

If your best friend is the same sex and straight, it’s probably best to keep your crush to yourself.

Step 3: Weigh the risk
Weigh the risk of confiding your feelings. If your BFF doesn’t feel the same way, would the friendship become too awkward to continue?

Step 4: Consider timing
Consider timing, too: Are they free to return your feelings, or are they involved with someone else? If they’re dating someone, examine whether your crush is sincere or is coming from jealousy over the relationship.

Never kiss them out of the blue. If they don’t share your feelings, they might feel too uncomfortable to continue the friendship.

Step 5: Tell them how you feel
If you decide to tell them how you feel, be casual. Say something like, “I had a huge crush on you in grade school,” and see how they react. Make it more of an offhand remark than a confession.

Step 6: Accept whatever happens
Be prepared for their reaction. If they say, “Wow – that would never work,” or laugh hysterically, change the subject and don’t bring it up again. If you’re already kissing, well, congratulations!

Step 7: Take a step back
If your feelings are not returned and it hurts to be around them, consider putting some distance between you two for a while. It will put you in a better place to meet someone who will love you back, at which time you might be read