We’ve all had that one guy friend who we love…as a friend. But while you may think of him only as a buddy, he may be wishing he were something more. Here’s how to put him in the friend zone, and keep him there:
1. Be upfront
This may seem like a no brainer, but telling your best guy friend you don’t like him in that way can be really hard, especially if you care about him and don’t want to hurt his feelings. Chances are, he won’t comprehend your subtle hints, so make sure to tell him straight up that you like him as a friend and nothing more. It may be hurtful at first, but it will make things better in the long run.
2. Don’t lead him on
Treat him like your brother, not your boyfriend. Avoid going on romantic outings, don’t rely on him to do any boyfriend duties and absolutely NO cuddling or holding hands. The line between friend and bf can be easily blurred, and if you want to keep him in the friend zone, you'll need to do everything you can to set them straight.
3. Don’t let him pay for you
When you go out for beers or to grab a bite to eat, make sure your guy friend isn’t always paying for you. Instead, go dutch or take turns paying for each other.
4. Offer relationship advice
One of the easiest ways to show that you don't like him romantically is to help him with his dating ventures and girl troubles (so long as they do not involve you). See a cute girl that seems totally his type? Offer to play wing (wo)man. Notice some dating mistakes he makes often? Help him fix them. Assisting him with his love life is a surefire way to show you're totally okay with him being with someone else (and not you).
5. Be open about your relationships and dating ventures
It may sound cruel, but sometimes this is the only way to let him know you are NOT interested in him (even if you’ve been upfront). Perhaps asking him for dating advice may not be the best idea (for all you know, he could try to sabotage your relationship with your new guy), but hopefully he'll get the hint when you casually lett him know how excited you are for date night with your new guy.
