he says he just wants to be friends but keeps flirting

he says he just wants to be friends but keeps flirting

It’s a confusing situation to be in when someone tells you they just want to be friends, yet their actions say otherwise. You find yourself wondering, “Does he really mean it, or is he just afraid to take things to the next level?” It’s a common scenario that many people find themselves in, leaving them feeling unsure about where they stand with the person in question.

Mixed Signals

One of the most frustrating aspects of being in this situation is dealing with mixed signals. On one hand, he’s adamant about being just friends, but on the other hand, he continues to flirt with you and show interest in a way that goes beyond just friendly banter. It leaves you feeling confused, wondering if he’s playing games with your emotions or if he genuinely wants to maintain a platonic relationship.

The Fear of Commitment

One possible explanation for his behavior could be a fear of commitment. He may be hesitant to take things to the next level because he’s afraid of getting hurt or hurting you in the process. By maintaining the façade of just wanting to be friends, he can keep things light and casual without having to confront his own fears about entering into a deeper, more serious relationship.

Keeping You on the Hook

Another reason he may be sending mixed signals is that he likes having you around as a backup option. By keeping you interested with his flirty behavior, he’s able to maintain a sense of control and power in the dynamic between the two of you. He may enjoy the attention and validation he receives from you without having to fully commit himself to a romantic relationship.

Communication is Key

If you find yourself in this situation, it’s important to communicate openly and honestly with him about your feelings. Let him know that his mixed signals are causing confusion and that you need clarity on where you stand in his life. By having a candid conversation, you can gain a better understanding of his intentions and whether or not he truly wants to be just friends or if he’s open to exploring something more.

Setting Boundaries

Setting boundaries is crucial in navigating this kind of relationship dynamic. If he continues to flirt and show interest despite claiming he just wants to be friends, it’s important to assert your own boundaries and make it clear what you are and are not comfortable with. Let him know that his behavior is sending mixed signals and that you need consistency and honesty in order to maintain a healthy friendship.

Trust Your Instincts

Ultimately, trust your instincts when it comes to deciphering his true intentions. If his actions don’t align with his words, it may be a sign that he’s not being truthful about his feelings. Pay attention to how he treats you and whether or not he respects your boundaries. If you feel like you’re being led on or used as a backup option, it may be time to reassess the nature of your relationship with him.

Conclusion

Navigating a situation where he says he just wants to be friends but continues to show interest can be challenging and confusing. It’s important to communicate openly, set boundaries, and trust your instincts in order to determine whether his actions align with his words. Remember that you deserve clarity and honesty in any kind of relationship, and don’t be afraid to advocate for your own emotional wellbeing.