4 Things You Should Do Instead of Playing Hard to Get

Waiting to text back. Being unnecessarily vague about your weekend. Creating unneeded distance when you (clearly) like each other. All examples of playing games. Yes, playing hard to get works when you’re trying to bone him, but if you actually like the guy, don’t do it. The moment you’re finally “got” the game is over, and he’ll no longer be interested.

Do you want to be in a successful relationship in your twenties? Then act like a grown-ass man.

Here’s how:

1. Admit you have (a lot) of feelings

Better yet, start embracing them, because they’re not going anywhere anytime soon. It’s the 21st century. We’re done with hyper masculine bullshit and what it means to be “a real man.” A real man cries and admits he’s upset. He then takes the next steps to address his feelings. So does a real woman. That’s what real PEOPLE do.

2. Get excited 

Go balls to the walls. Feel giddy. Sure, it might not end well, but if you have an initial spark, why are you trying to put it out? Let me clarify; don’t be a stage five clinger. Just enjoy getting excited about someone. If it doesn’t work out, that really sucks. But as the saying goes, “‘Tis better to have loved and lost than never to have loved at all.” And, yes, eventually you will move on from your heartbreak.

3. Embrace complications 

There is no “simple” in a meaningful relationship. Meaningful relationships are complex, but that’s why they’re meaningful.

4. Don’t be afraid to be exclusive 

If you’re a polyamorous guy who’s morally opposed to monogamy for X, Y, and Z — good for you! You can stop reading here. If you’re a guy who’s afraid of commitment with a wandering eye and severe FOMO — get it out of your system now. Have that fun single life until you’re sick of it. If you never get sick of it, awesome! Then having a serious relationship might not be right for you, and that’s OK.