Take baby steps. Start with a simple “hello. " Once you feel more confident, ask people how they are doing. Eventually, you’ll gain enough courage to talk to your crush! You don’t have to say “hello. " You can use another greeting that comes more naturally to you, such as “hi!” or “hey!”
For example, if you know that they’re involved in sports or music, you could plan to ask them, “Hey, how did the game last night go?” or “I heard that your band is doing really well! When’s your next show?” If you’re in the same class or activity, mention that or make a joke. This can help you develop an inside joke or something to return to the next time you talk. Preparing a little doesn’t mean you should script the entire conversation beforehand–be present and genuine when talking to your crush.
Try deep breathing. Inhale for 4 counts, hold your breath for 7 counts, then exhale for 8 counts.
This doesn’t mean that you have to smile 100% of the time like a Barbie doll. Instead, flash them a quick smile to show that you are comfortable around them. Try to smile with your eyes as well; this will make your expression look more natural.
If they’re wearing a t-shirt with the logo of a band you like or a place you’ve been before, you have even more opportunity for a conversation. For example, you could say, “I love that band! Did you see them in concert?” or “New York is so beautiful this time of year–did you visit recently?” Compliments are easy because neither of you is obligated to make conversation after the initial contact, but you still have the option. And now that you’ve initiated, you can smile and acknowledge them when you see them, which can also build your connection.
Obviously, constantly asking someone for favors could become annoying, so don’t do this too often. Once or twice at most should be enough.
For example, you could say in a friendly tone, “Hey, how are you feeling about the test tomorrow? Want to go over the vocabulary together tonight?” Depending on how well you know your crush, you could either study in a public place, such as the library or a coffee shop, or at your house. If you’ve never talked to your crush before, you could put together a study group with some other classmates and casually invite your crush as well. This way, your invitation is low-pressure and general, rather than obvious and out of the blue.
Some topics you could ask about include their interests, hobbies, job, plans for the weekend, or pop culture recommendations (such as favorite books or movies).
Keeping eye contact is important because it shows the other person that you are listening to what they are saying. The reason you don’t want to maintain eye contact 100% of the time is simply because it’s unnerving. Break eye contact occasionally by focusing on something else for few seconds; it can even be an object behind their shoulder or even your lap, if you’re sitting.
