Can you compliment guys and be nice to them without them thinking you are hitting on them?

In real life I feel like I always have to act abrasive and like a b*tch around guys because any time I'm nice I get the overwhelming feeling that they think I am hitting on them or want to date them. Like I would love to give guys compliments and be a nice person but I have heard from friends and stories about guys who think that gives them permission to do stuff with the girls. I also hateee if anyone knows I have a crush on them so I just outright avoid them and force myself to stop crushing. But I want to be able to have guy friends. Real dilemma here.

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JP1119 · 36-40, M

If you're nice to a guy and you think maybe he likes you, you could always ask him. I mean like have a dtr (define the relationship) conversation. At least in theory I think communication and honesty are key.

newdawnnewday · 22-25, F

@JP1119 That seems like it could work in theory but I feel that can get awkward really quickly because it comes with a lot of presumptions and I tend to avoid confrontation haha

JP1119 · 36-40, M

@newdawnnewday I think the only awkward part would be convincing yourself to try to talk about it. Once you put your cards on the table, then I think you would be more comfortable knowing how each other feels and hopefully coming to an agreement on how things should be.

newdawnnewday · 22-25, F

@JP1119 I tend to overthink things a lot though so idk how effective I would be. I guess I am also more scared of the guy thinking I have a crush on him.

JP1119 · 36-40, M

@newdawnnewday I don't think he would think for very long that you have a crush on him if you assure him that you don't. Whatever, hope I helped, got you thinking maybe.

newdawnnewday · 22-25, F

@JP1119 yes thank you!!