How To Know When To Tell Someone You Like Them - WikiHow

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Terms of Use wikiHow is where trusted research and expert knowledge come together. Learn why people trust wikiHow How to Know When to Tell Someone You Like Them PDF download Download Article Co-authored by Connell Barrett and Amy Bobinger, BA

Last Updated: February 24, 2025 References

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  • Deciding Whether to Tell Them
    • |
  • Finding the Right Time
    • |
  • Video
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  • Expert Q&A
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  • Tips
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This article was co-authored by Connell Barrett and by wikiHow staff writer, Amy Bobinger, BA. Connell Barrett is a Relationship Expert and the Founder and Executive Coach of Dating Transformation in New York City. Connell has over five years of experience as an international coach who helps men connect with women by unlocking their best, true, most confident selves. He is the author of the Amazon bestseller “Dating Sucks but You Don’t,” and has appeared on Good Morning America, the "Today" show, Access Hollywood, and in Best Life, Cosmopolitan, and The Oprah Magazine. In 2019 he was named Datezie.com's “New York City’s Best Male Dating Coach." There are 8 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been viewed 601,011 times.

If you have a crush on someone, it can be really hard to work up the courage to let them know. Telling them opens you up to the risk that they might not be interested, but keeping your feelings to yourself can make it really hard to move past the crush. Then, once you do decide to tell the person how you feel, you have to find the right time for the conversation. Luckily, there are a few tips that can help you make both decisions a little easier.

Steps

Method 1 Method 1 of 2:

Deciding Whether to Tell Them

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  1. Step 1 Think about why you have a crush on this person. 1 Think about why you have a crush on this person. When you’re deciding whether to share your feelings with your crush, take some time to be honest with yourself about why you like them. If you and your crush like a lot of the same things, you always have fun when you spend time together, and you have the same values in life (like getting good grades or spending time with your family), you might be a good fit together![1]
    • If you don’t know your crush very well, you might just be infatuated by their physical appearance or the way they present themselves. If that’s the case, you can sometimes build up an image of them in your head that they can’t live up to, which isn’t the best basis for a healthy relationship.
    • Reader Poll: We asked 859 wikiHow readers who've told their crush they like them, and 56% of them agreed that their goal in doing so is to see if there’s a chance for a romantic relationship. [Take Poll] When deciding whether you should confess your feelings, think about whether you can see yourself in a relationship with them or not.
  2. Step 2 Spend one-on-one time if you need to get to know your crush better. 2 Spend one-on-one time if you need to get to know your crush better. Instead of just admiring your crush from afar—or rushing into a full confession of your feelings—see if you can come up with a way to spend time around them. That way, you can get to know their character better, and you’ll give them a chance to get to know you, too. This will help you decide whether you should tell them about your crush. In some cases, it might even make you realize you like the person better as a friend![2]
    • If you go to school with your crush, try spending time together by sitting together at lunch, asking for help with a school project, and spending time around their friends.
    • You can also invite your crush to hang out with you and your friends when you get together.
    • If your crush drives and you don’t, ask them if they can give you a ride so you can spend time together!
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  3. Step 3 Watch for signs... 3 Watch for signs that your crush likes you, too. If someone likes you, they’ll usually pay a lot of attention to you when you’re around. They might spend time looking at you, or they might always laugh at your jokes, even if they aren’t that funny. These can all be signs that your crush likes you, and you should probably tell them how you feel.[3]
    • You might also notice that your crush remembers little details about you, seems reluctant to say goodbye or leave when you’re around, or finds reasons to brush their hand against yours.
    • Keep in mind that relationships aren’t an exact science. Sometimes, a person might act that way and not mean anything by it.
  4. Step 4 Don’t let fear hold you back. 4 Don’t let fear hold you back. It can be really tempting to avoid putting yourself out there because you’re afraid of being rejected. However, if you’ve taken the time to think about why you like this person and you’re convinced they’re right for you, and you think that there’s a possibility they might like you back, just go for it!
    • Even if you put yourself out there and they say no, you can tell yourself that you were brave and bold, and you should be proud of yourself for trying.
    EXPERT TIP Elvina Lui, MFT

    Elvina Lui, MFT

    Marriage & Family Therapist Elvina Lui is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in relationship counseling based in the San Francisco Bay Area. Elvina received her Masters in Counseling from Western Seminary in 2007 and trained under the Asian Family Institute in San Francisco and the New Life Community Services in Santa Cruz. She has over 13 years of counseling experience and is trained in the harm reduction model. Elvina Lui, MFT Elvina Lui, MFT Marriage & Family Therapist

    Our Expert Agrees: Don't let fear get the best of you. If you want a relationship with this person, you are seeing something in them that opened your heart. Don't be afraid to take a leap of faith instead of letting love slip through your fingers.

  5. Step 5 Consider letting it go if they don’t seem interested. 5 Consider letting it go if they don’t seem interested. It can be really hard to accept that your crush doesn’t like you, but it does happen sometimes. If you’ve tried spending time getting to know them, but they don’t seem to be sending back the same signals, take a step back and consider whether they’re really the best match for you.[4]
    • You should probably move on if the other person doesn’t respond to your texts, they seem disinterested or annoyed when you’re talking, or if they tease you in a mean-spirited way. Also, they’re probably not interested if they talk about other love interests in front of you.
    • Avoid approaching a crush who is already in a relationship, as this is just likely to cause unpleasant drama.[5]

    Dating Advice: Remember, someone who likes you should never make you feel bad about yourself, If your crush does that, you should focus your attention on someone who builds you up, instead.

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Quiz

wikiHow Quiz: Do I Like Him?

So, there’s this guy. When he’s nearby, your stomach does somersaults and you can’t seem to say anything right. But are these butterflies because you genuinely like him or because you like the idea of him? Emotions can be tricky to decipher, so we’ve put together this quiz to help you out. Answer these questions about how you feel about that special guy to learn if you’re totally crushing, want to stay in the friend zone, or just like the attention. 1 of 12

How often do you think about him?

Eh, every once in a while.

Fairly often. We’re friends, after all!

Every day. I’m even daydreaming about him.

Not a moment goes by when I don’t think of him.

Next Method 2 Method 2 of 2:

Finding the Right Time

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  1. Step 1 Try to tell your crush sooner rather than later. 1 Try to tell your crush sooner rather than later. Once you’ve decided that you’re going to tell your crush you like them, try to make your move quickly. The longer you wait, the harder it will be, and the more you’re likely to overthink it.[6]
    • Even if your crush says no, telling them sooner will give you a chance to move on more quickly. If they say yes, you can move on to your relationship faster!
    • If you’re having trouble working up the courage to tell them, set a deadline for yourself and write it on your calendar.[7]
  2. Step 2 Try to pick a time when the other person isn’t busy, stressed, or tired. 2 Try to pick a time when the other person isn’t busy, stressed, or tired. Even if your crush likes you back, it can come as a big emotional surprise to hear that you have feelings for them. If the person you’re like is already dealing with a lot, that can be an overwhelming conversation to have. Before you confess your feelings, ask your crush how they’re doing. If it sounds like they’re stressed out or exhausted, it’s probably better to wait for another day.[8]
    • For instance, if you know your crush has a big presentation coming up, they’re starting a new job, they’re not feeling well, or they were up late studying, be considerate and give them a little space.
  3. Step 3 Wait until it’s just the two of you alone. 3 Wait until it’s just the two of you alone. If you tell your crush you like them in front of all of their friends, they might feel embarrassed or put on the spot. To avoid that, try to find a time when the two of you can have a private conversation. Either invite them to meet you somewhere, ask them to walk with you, or approach them when they’re on their own.[9] [10]
    • If you’re both hanging out in a big group, for instance, you might say something like, “Hey Jess, I’m going to grab a drink and I wanted to talk to you for a sec. Wanna come?” By keeping it casual, you can help put them at ease.
    • You could also text your crush with something like, “Wait for me after your last class and I’ll walk you home.” That way, you’ll have some time to talk, but you’re not springing your feelings on them during their school day.
  4. Step 4 Call or text the other person if you're too shy to tell them in person. 4 Call or text the other person if you're too shy to tell them in person.[11] If having a face-to-face conversation seems nerve-wracking, you might want to consider calling or texting your crush. Get your crush's number, then send them a text asking if they have a minute to talk. If they're free, give them a call or send them a straightforward text letting them know your feelings.[12]
    • This can help take some of the pressure off of the other person, too, since they won't have to come up with an answer right away.
    • The same rules apply to a phone call or text conversation as an in-person chat. Try to make sure you have the other person's undivided attention, and avoid telling them how you feel while they're feeling stressed out or tired.
  5. Step 5 Try video chatting if you have a long-distance crush. 5 Try video chatting if you have a long-distance crush.[13] If there's someone you really like but you don't have the chance to see them often, try asking them to video chat! There are a number of apps available that will allow you to have a face-to-face conversation, as long as you have a cell phone with a front-facing camera or a computer with a webcam.[14]
    • Some of the more popular options for video chatting include Facebook, Skype, Snapchat, or FaceTime if you both have an iPhone or Mac.
  6. Step 6 Give yourself an escape plan. 6 Give yourself an escape plan. Don’t spring your feelings on your crush if you’re both going to be stuck in close proximity for a long time. That could lead to a really drawn out, awkward experience for both of you if they don’t share your feelings. Also, make sure you plan to give your crush a little space to think about things before answering.[15]
    • For instance, it’s probably not a good idea to tell someone you like them at the beginning of a long car ride, since neither of you will have the option of walking away if things feel uncomfortable.

    Ready to tell your crush how you feel? Check out How to Confess to Your Crush for advice!

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Join the Discussion...

Help, how do I tell him I like him??? WikiValleyKeeper751 WikiValleyKeeper751 So, we've known each other for three years, and I love being around him! He gives me so much happiness and warmth. But anytime I try to tell him, I chicken out! We've had a lot of romantic moments but both of us are to anxious to say anything. I'm terrified I'll lose the happiness I'll get around him. What do I do? Read More Cristina Morara Cristina Morara Dating Coach Don’t confess your feelings unless you’re willing to change the dynamics of your friendship. If he felt something romantic for you, you would know. But if you must, do it carefully and slowly. When you flirt with your guy friend and look at him differently, he should get a sense that you’re trying to shift things and will react accordingly. If he’s oblivious to your new advances or super shy, you could playfully pose the question: "Have you ever imagined us together as more than just friends….?" What he says and how he says it will tell you everything. Read More wikiHow Editorial Team wikiHow Editorial Team Telling your friend how you feel can be nerve-wracking, but it's worth it to shoot your shot and see where your relationship can go. We suggest just spitting it out directly and confidently: don’t beat around the bush—but be sure to let him know there’s no pressure. Just say, “Hey, I feel like we get along great, and I would love to be more than friends. If you don’t feel the same, that's okay! I just wanted to put it out there, and if you don’t return the feelings, we can go back to how things were.”Telling a friend you have a crush on them can be risky, because if they don’t return the feelings, things might be awkward between you both for a little while—but since you’ve been friends for a while, you’ll probably be able to move past the awkwardness and return to being friends if he's not interested in taking things to the next level. Good luck! Read More See all 2 Replies and Read Discussion

Expert Q&A

Search Add New Question
  • Question How do I tell someone that I like them? Connell Barrett Connell Barrett Dating Coach Connell Barrett is a Relationship Expert and the Founder and Executive Coach of Dating Transformation in New York City. Connell has over five years of experience as an international coach who helps men connect with women by unlocking their best, true, most confident selves. He is the author of the Amazon bestseller “Dating Sucks but You Don’t,” and has appeared on Good Morning America, the "Today" show, Access Hollywood, and in Best Life, Cosmopolitan, and The Oprah Magazine. In 2019 he was named Datezie.com's “New York City’s Best Male Dating Coach." Connell Barrett Connell Barrett Dating Coach Expert Answer Wait until a time where you're alone and have some time together. Start off with some casual conversation before telling them directly. If they respond positively, try asking them out on a date. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 3 Helpful 10
  • Question I like this boy im scared he might reject me what can a 14 yr old do? Connell Barrett Connell Barrett Dating Coach Connell Barrett is a Relationship Expert and the Founder and Executive Coach of Dating Transformation in New York City. Connell has over five years of experience as an international coach who helps men connect with women by unlocking their best, true, most confident selves. He is the author of the Amazon bestseller “Dating Sucks but You Don’t,” and has appeared on Good Morning America, the "Today" show, Access Hollywood, and in Best Life, Cosmopolitan, and The Oprah Magazine. In 2019 he was named Datezie.com's “New York City’s Best Male Dating Coach." Connell Barrett Connell Barrett Dating Coach Expert Answer It's better to put yourself out there and be rejected than to miss out on a chance because you were too afraid to try! Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 10 Helpful 58
  • Question I was talking to a girl and we left and I need to know what to tell her Connell Barrett Connell Barrett Dating Coach Connell Barrett is a Relationship Expert and the Founder and Executive Coach of Dating Transformation in New York City. Connell has over five years of experience as an international coach who helps men connect with women by unlocking their best, true, most confident selves. He is the author of the Amazon bestseller “Dating Sucks but You Don’t,” and has appeared on Good Morning America, the "Today" show, Access Hollywood, and in Best Life, Cosmopolitan, and The Oprah Magazine. In 2019 he was named Datezie.com's “New York City’s Best Male Dating Coach." Connell Barrett Connell Barrett Dating Coach Expert Answer Just be honest and straightforward - try something like, "I really enjoyed hanging out with you, and I like you a lot. I'd like to get to know you better. Would you like to go out with me?" Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 5 Helpful 10
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Tips

  • Try not to let a fear of rejection stop you from speaking up to your crush. You may feel awkward for a few days, but the feeling will pass sooner than you think. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

Tips from our Readers

The advice in this section is based on the lived experiences of wikiHow readers like you. If you have a helpful tip you’d like to share on wikiHow, please submit it in the field below.
  • If you're certain that you really like this person, be confident and calm, go up to them, and let them know that you have feelings for them. If they don't like you back, it's OK. At least you told them the truth and got it off your chest!
  • If you're sure that the person likes you back, go for it! If you're not sure, try to give them little hints, like laughing at their jokes. Be subtle, though, because being too obvious can be off-putting.
  • Start with "I need to tell you something" and then take a deep breath and say "I like you." As scary as it may be, I have done this many times and it gets easier each time!
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References

  1. ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/meet-catch-and-keep/201501/how-can-you-tell-when-you-should-just-be-friends
  2. ↑ https://www.teenvogue.com/story/crush-on-friend
  3. ↑ https://www.bustle.com/articles/125625-7-simple-body-language-hints-to-tell-if-someone-is-into-you
  4. ↑ https://www.glamour.com/story/when-to-call-it-quits-on-an-un
  5. ↑ Connell Barrett. Dating Coach. Expert Interview
  6. ↑ https://www.aconsciousrethink.com/8573/tell-someone-you-like-them/
  7. ↑ https://www.refinery29.com/en-us/how-to-tell-someone-you-like-them
  8. ↑ https://www.aconsciousrethink.com/8573/tell-someone-you-like-them/
  9. ↑ Connell Barrett. Dating Coach. Expert Interview
More References (6)
  1. ↑ https://www.aconsciousrethink.com/8573/tell-someone-you-like-them/
  2. ↑ Connell Barrett. Dating Coach. Expert Interview
  3. ↑ https://www.refinery29.com/en-us/how-to-tell-someone-you-like-them
  4. ↑ Connell Barrett. Dating Coach. Expert Interview
  5. ↑ http://time.com/4939252/best-video-calling-apps-android-iphone-pc-mac/
  6. ↑ https://www.teenvogue.com/story/crush-on-friend

About This Article

Connell Barrett Co-authored by: Connell Barrett Dating Coach This article was co-authored by Connell Barrett and by wikiHow staff writer, Amy Bobinger, BA. Connell Barrett is a Relationship Expert and the Founder and Executive Coach of Dating Transformation in New York City. Connell has over five years of experience as an international coach who helps men connect with women by unlocking their best, true, most confident selves. He is the author of the Amazon bestseller “Dating Sucks but You Don’t,” and has appeared on Good Morning America, the "Today" show, Access Hollywood, and in Best Life, Cosmopolitan, and The Oprah Magazine. In 2019 he was named Datezie.com's “New York City’s Best Male Dating Coach." This article has been viewed 601,011 times. 17 votes - 66% Co-authors: 65 Updated: February 24, 2025 Views: 601,011 Categories: Crushes Article SummaryX

Telling someone you like them can be scary, but finding a quiet time for the conversation can make it easier. Once you decide you want to tell your crush how you feel, go for it! If you wait, you’re more likely to overthink it. If you’re having a hard time working up the courage to tell them, set a deadline for yourself. If possible, pick a time when your crush isn’t busy, stressed, or rushing around so they can give you their full attention. You’ll also want to wait until the 2 of you are alone to avoid being interrupted or embarrassing yourself in front of your friends. You can also call or text your crush if you feel too shy to talk to them in person. To learn how to watch for signs that your crush likes you too, keep reading! Did this summary help you?YesNo

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Reader Success Stories

  • Ethan Staples

    Ethan Staples

    Apr 11, 2017

    "I like this girl, and she just recently got cheated on by her boyfriend. I was there to help her. Then I found out..." more Rated this article:
More reader stories Hide reader stories Share your story

Did this article help you?

Yes No Advertisement Cookies make wikiHow better. By continuing to use our site, you agree to our cookie policy. Connell Barrett Co-authored by: Connell Barrett Dating Coach 17 votes - 66% Click a star to vote Co-authors: 65 Updated: February 24, 2025 Views: 601,011 Ethan Staples

Ethan Staples

Apr 11, 2017

"I like this girl, and she just recently got cheated on by her boyfriend. I was there to help her. Then I found out..." more Rated this article: Gia Tyrran

Gia Tyrran

Nov 2, 2018

"I'm a lesbian, and assumed that this would work for my crush (a girl). It did! We're a couple now. Thank..." more Paige Jenkins

Paige Jenkins

Mar 21, 2016

"Having confidence. You made me feel like I can do it when I go back to school. I will tell my crush. Thank you." Leah Roberts

Leah Roberts

Jun 2, 2018

"Great tips. I feel like maybe there should also be some tips on how to drop hints before actually asking." Manty Sekamars

Manty Sekamars

Jan 22, 2022

"I am bi and I like a girl. I told her I like her and she likes me too. " Rated this article: Share yours! More success stories Hide success stories

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