Maintaining composure around the crush

Keeping my cool around my crush was perhaps the biggest challenge. The army of butterflies in my stomach seemed to multiply tenfold in their presence. To appear more confident, I practiced positive self-talk, reminding myself that I was worthy of their attention. I also made a conscious effort to slow down my speech to avoid tumbling over my words.

I learned that asking questions and listening attentively not only took the pressure off me but also showed genuine interest in them. I'd inquire about their day or their interests, like asking, "How did your swim meet go last weekend?" if they were on the swim team. This approach helped me build a connection without seeming too eager or trying too hard to be funny or charming.

To maintain a balance, I made sure to give my crush space and continue enjoying my own life. I kept up with my hobbies and spent time with friends, which not only made me more interesting but also helped me avoid becoming overly fixated on my crush.

As I navigated this emotional rollercoaster, I reminded myself that everyone, including my crush, experiences insecurities and the desire to be loved. This realization helped me approach our interactions with more empathy and understanding, making the daily struggle of balancing my emotions and routine a little more manageable.