1. How to deal with a friend who has fallen in love with you
Your best friend is your go-to person for almost every situation. Whether you are feeling happy or frustrated, you would always find yourself approaching your best friend to share your emotions. But what if your friend falls in love with you while all you want is a platonic friendship? We agree it can be a very awkward situation. A lot depends on how you deal with the situation because if you act impulsively or in anger, you run the risk of losing the person you trust most. Here’s how you can get over the awkwardness and straighten out the mess without ruining your friendship.
2. ​Be honest
It is really important to be honest to your friend. Confess to your friend that you do not have similar feelings for him. Tell him that you cherish your friendship and do not want anything to impact the bond. Make sure you do not sound rude or angry when you talk to him.
3. ​It’s okay to feel awkward
The situation is bound to get a bit awkward. Your friend might be worried about the consequences and might find it difficult to face you. Or he might be offended after hearing that you are not in love with him. Whatever the aftermath might be, try to act normal and do not ignore him whenever both of you meet in a group.
4. Set some boundaries
It is important to set some healthy boundaries. Sometimes we do things that might send the wrong signal. If you have the habit of treating him like an almost-boyfriend (like calling him at odd hours, meeting at romantic places where mostly couples visit, etc.), you need to stop such habits.
5. Talk to another friend
If your friend still keeps dropping hints or tries convincing you about his feelings, you can consider talking to a mutual friend. Maybe this third person understands him better and can guide you on how to take this forward. If not this, he or she can talk to your friend and help to sort out the issues.
6. You both need some personal space
You do not need to feel guilty for saying ‘NO’ to his declaration of love or setting new boundaries. In fact, it is completely okay if you don’t feel like spending time with him the same way you used to do before. Both of you need some personal space to process the situation and get rid of the awkwardness.
7. Do not gossip!
Some of us have this temptation to share everything with other friends. Bust such sensitive topics are better kept between the two. Being a good friend, it is your duty to respect his feelings and not gossip about it. Your friendship might face irreparable damage if the gossip reaches his ears and it will only create more problems in your relationship.
8. ​The time ahead
Keep in mind that things won’t bounce back to normal all of a sudden. You have to be a good friend. His feelings would fade away or become less intense with time and you will share the same rapport with him then. Friendship is a two-way street. If you both are committed to maintaining your friendship, things will eventually work out.