Reply to questions in short, direct sentences. Don’t ask unnecessary questions, especially about anything fun or otherwise off topic. Avoid conversations about topics that either of you will enjoy. As a general rule, don’t perk his interest by doing or saying intriguing or engaging things.

Monitor your own excitement. Don’t allow yourself to send the message you’re interested. Don’t open up to him. If you make yourself emotionally accessible – even about something seemingly innocuous – you won’t be able to hide your feelings about him for long.

Unfriend or unfollow him on Facebook. Quit following his Instagram. If you’re into him, looking at his selfies will be torture. Repeat the equivalent for all the other social media platforms you both use. No need to see that snapchat of him having a blast. Way too cute to handle.

If your crush is someone you need to keep in touch with for professional or other non-romantic reasons, re-label his number in your phone according. For instance, change the contact information to “Your Boss” or “Jenny’s Boyfriend. ”

Cross your arms. Take care not to openly present the front of your torso to him. You’re likely doing so without thinking. Hold something in front of your stomach.

Avoid touching with the palm. If you have to spend time around your crush, and occasionally must engage in the horror of physical contact, do so coldly. Casual touches and physical contact are a big giveaway that you like them. [4] X Research source Touch only with your fingertips, as this is less likely to betray your interest. Quit rubbing your hands together. Rubbing your hands lets others know you’re nervous. Play it cool by doing perfectly boring and innocuous things with your hands. If you can’t control yourself, put your hands in your pockets or under the table.

Make sure you’re only making professional, abrupt, and generally boring amounts of eye contact. If you must, furrow your brow a bit. This will make it seem like you’re thinking about what you’re talking about instead of his perfectly chiseled features.

Check your phone constantly. He’ll get the message that you’re not interested pretty quick if you’re looking at your phone more than his eyes. Don’t expose your neck. And definitely, definitely don’t start stroking your neck. Not only does this say “come touch me,” it literally releases pheromones.

Literally talk to yourself. Say, “[insert your name], this can’t happen. Think about something else. ” You’ll likely wind up laughing at yourself – which is a good thing, because laughter is distracting. If it’s simply unrequited love, move on with your life. This can be a mighty challenge, but you’ll wind up happier sooner than you think. It’s fine to still be his friend, but it’s not a good idea to hang out in the friend zone hoping that something will happen someday.

Remind yourself about the paths you’re walking in your individual life that have nothing to do with you crush. Recognize your own free will – and his. If you’re hiding your affection, respect the reason, whatever it is and whoever it has more to do with. Put energy and effort into things you can act on, improve, and enjoy.