What is the friend zone and how to get out of it? Otherwise, this question can be formulated as follows: “How to take relationships to a new level?” This topic is complex, because we are talking about feelings that sometimes we cannot admit even to ourselves, much less to strangers…
What if you are stuck in a relationship like that? Do not despair under any circumstances! We will understand all the nuances and prepare for any scenario.
psychoanalytic psychologist, CBT, coach
“The term “friend zone” is used to describe a situation in which one party in a friendly relationship experiences romantic feelings, and the other… Often does not even think about the possibility of developing them in this way. How to get out of the friend zone if you fall into the first category: you want something more, but you don’t know how to turn in that direction?
What is a friend zone?
The concept of the “friend zone” has become widespread thanks to social media, movies and television shows. This phenomenon has become the subject of much discussion in the media and provocative discussions in online communities. Let’s understand in detail what it is. It doesn’t matter if a girl or a guy needs to get out of the friend zone: the principles of work will be the same.
The friend zone is a complex emotional situation in which one of the parties establishes a relationship at the level of friendship, while the other, investing romantic feelings in it, experiences disappointment, resentment and feelings of inferiority. This can cause misunderstandings and suffering both for those who are experiencing something more than friendship and for the second participant in this tandem.
The friend zone can cause severe emotional trauma, as it is often accompanied by worries and internal conflicts. Those who find themselves in this situation may feel a loss of self-esteem and confidence. The other party often feels guilty.
Photo: Nikada / istockphoto.com
How to get out of the friend zone?
Step one
You should start by analyzing the reasons why you want more than friendship. This may be due to a strong emotional bond, shared interests, or mutual support.
You may be going through a stage in your life right now where the object of your attraction is very supportive and you feel like you’re “falling in love.”
I think many of you know the movie “Twilight.” This is the perfect example of the friend zone. One of the key characters, Jacob, shows signs of attention to Bella in every possible way, but all in vain. He is stuck in the friend zone and love triangle. But as soon as the object of Bella’s love disappears, she tries to find salvation in her friend and begins to develop feelings for him.
Obviously, going from the friend zone to a love story is quite possible. Once you have realized the true need to implement this scenario, you should move on to the second step.
The psychologist gives advice and shares exercises to relieve anxiety:
What to do if anxiety rules your life? 3 main steps and simple techniques.
Second step
If you are confident in the depth of your feelings, it is important to open up. One of the key aspects of a healthy relationship is being able to talk honestly about your feelings. In the context of romantic relationships, this is especially important. Admitting your feelings to another person can be a difficult task. However, a frank conversation can bring many positive moments. It strengthens trust between partners, creates emotional intimacy and allows them to understand each other more deeply.
Many people are ashamed to talk about their feelings, they are afraid of openness and vulnerability. And unfortunately, not being honest can lead to misunderstandings and conflicts. To build a healthy relationship, it is important to overcome this stereotype and start talking openly about your feelings.
Avoiding openness is often associated with fear of rejection. However, it is worth remembering that the honest expression of emotions carries not only risks, but also an opportunity for growth and deepening of the relationship. Talking about feelings can be a fundamental piece for your emotional development.
An open and honest discussion about your feelings with your partner is important to creating a harmonious and healthy relationship, both friendly and romantic. This allows you to strengthen communication, reduce potential conflicts, and promote better mutual understanding. Ultimately, opening up to your feelings is the path to a deep, mutually understood connection. And this is the basis of strong relationships.
A little motivation to believe in yourself:
What Tarkan looks like now and what he is doing: weight loss, rare concerts and a beautiful wife
When you decide that you are ready to move on to a new stage of intimacy, you must accept that this may lead to a possible abandonment or change in the friendship.
The emotional side of this process can be difficult and it is important to prepare for your boyfriend’s possible reaction. There is also a certain level of vulnerability that comes with being in a relationship. The risk of rejection can affect your sense of self and her confidence. This requires a deep understanding of your own emotions.
Leaving the friend zone has the potential to deepen and enrich relationships, but it comes with the risk of lost friendships and emotional pain. Preparing for a possible rejection or change in the relationship, as well as a deep understanding of oneself, are important parts of the process. If you want to get out of the friend zone and start dating your friend, it is important to deeply understand and resolve all of these points.
So the plot can develop in different ways. Perhaps your friend/girlfriend was simply waiting for a frank conversation to admit your reciprocal feelings to her. What if this is not the case?
You can simply suggest spending time apart from your friend and looking for new opportunities to expand your circle of friends and acquaintances.
How long has it been since you communicated with someone other than your object of attraction? Or did you meet friends in a large group to play board games? Be open to new opportunities and friendships with other people.
Rethinking your social circle and finding friends can bring many opportunities and perspectives in life. New people can be wonderful and supportive. Knowing them will inspire change and transform your life. It’s quite possible!
Photo: Djordje Krstic / istockphoto.com
How to survive rejection and breakup?
After experiencing rejection or changes in your relationship with a loved one, it is essential to regain self-esteem and confidence. How to do it?
1. Realize that rejection does not determine our value as a person. Begin the process of rebuilding your self-esteem by recognizing your strengths and the qualities that make us unique. Feel your emotions and accept them as they are. Connecting with loved ones and trusted people will help you feel supported.
2. Spend time on activities that bring you joy and satisfaction. You showed courage by talking about your feelings, try to give them space. Time is the magic cure after a difficult conversation (for both you and your friend).
3. Pay attention to your achievements and successes, even if they may seem insignificant at first glance.
4. Take care of yourself. Realize that your well-being is the top priority. Resume exercise, take care of your diet, sleep and other aspects of your health. Remember that the process of recovering from emotional trauma takes time.
Exploring and understanding your true feelings is essential to creating healthy, open relationships in today’s society. Empathy, honest communication, and respect for your own feelings and those of others will help you avoid painful situations in the friend zone.
Each of us can find ourselves in such a situation and it is important to pay close attention to understanding your own feelings (in relation to the object of your interest). Be honest with yourself and answer the question: “What exactly are your feelings toward this person?” Is this a temporary attraction or deeper emotions?
It all starts with an honest dialogue with yourself. If you haven’t analyzed your feelings yet, start here. Are they deep and does the situation torment you? Then get out of the friend zone. And honest dialogue will help here too. Now the interlocutor is your friend. Sooner or later this conversation will happen. You don’t have to worry about it every day. Maybe it’s time to start a new life, with different people, feelings and perspectives.
A great guide that describes all the nuances of this topic:
Do you have real friends and how to make them? 6 signals and detailed strategy
Do you want more tips and tricks for a healthy lifestyle?
Subscribe to the weekly Lifestyle newsletter.
Subscribe by email
