If you’re feeling brave, tell them about your crush, and explain that you need some time away to get over it. Tell them that you still like them and want to hang out once things cool down, so that they know it’s not personal. Otherwise, make gentle excuses: you’re too busy, you have a huge project this month, you’ve been needed to help out at home more, et cetera. If your crush asks if there’s a problem, explain to them there’s a lot going on right now, but you want to hang out with them once things get more manageable.
If you aren’t straight, try looking for people of compatible orientations at pride events, LGBT+ clubs, dating websites, or gay bars (if you’re of drinking age).
If you have a huge crush on this person, hanging out with them but not dating them may feel like torture. Don’t put yourself through agony just to keep clinging to an impossible relationship. You deserve better. Don’t say “Let’s be friends” if you aren’t actually satisfied with being friends. Remember that you don’t have to decide right away. During your time away, you can work through your feelings, and then figure it out.
Give yourself a mini-makeover. It can be as simple as changing your hairstyle, or buying some new clothes. Make sure it’s something that will boost your confidence. Get organized. If it’s been awhile since you’ve cleaned out your closet/car/garage/basement, get on it! Sorting through old junk can be a meditative process, and you’ll probably feel relaxed and accomplished when you’re done. Work out. Exercise clears the mind — when you’re so focused on pushing your body, you can’t afford to worry about much else besides breathing and moving.
Write two lists: one list of things you’re grateful for, and one list of things you’re good at (work, hobbies, social skills, etc. ). Tape these lists to your wall where you can see them every day. Practice positive self-talk. [6] X Research source It sounds silly, but it really works. Look at yourself in the mirror a few times a day, and say whatever it is that you need to hear. It might be “You’ll find someone better” or “No one is worth all this moping” or even just “I am awesome. " Repeat it until you believe it. Work on your hobbies and skills. Sing a song, build a birdhouse, beat the tenth level, draw a picture, or whatever you love. Then look at your work and recognize how cool it is. Volunteer. Clean up neighborhoods, teach underprivileged children, work at a soup kitchen, or help out online at websites like wikiHow. Doing good work will help you feel proud of yourself. [7] X Research source
