How To Handle a Crush on Your Best Friend

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.

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

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.

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.

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!

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 ready to resume the friendship.