How to Cope With Unrequited Attraction

1. Don’t check their Instagram.

2. Don’t leave lunch a little earlier than usual just because you think you’ll run into them on the bridge.

3. Don’t hangout in their apartment for more than twenty minutes when you were supposed to be “just dropping something off.”

4. When they know you’re sick, don’t expect them to send you a message asking you how you’re feeling, even though they gave you cough syrup.

5. Seriously, don’t check their Instagram.

6. You know what, just avoid their apartment altogether. It doesn’t matter if the door’s open. Just…don’t.

7. Pray the attraction away. When you’re praying, do not, I repeat, do not, add “well, unless they’re interested, too.” They’re not, and you’re giving yourself false hope.

8. Ignore their encouragement when they cheer you on in your hockey game — both games. I promise it means nothing. I promise.

9. Stop thinking about them. Take your thoughts elsewhere. I know it’s impossible, but the attempt will help. It will frustrate you first, but it will help.

10. Don’t bring them up in conversation. If other people bring them up, change the topic. But not too quickly.

11. Avoid the promotion of unrealistic romantic ideals altogether — movies, books, etc. They won’t help.

12. Don’t wave to them unless they wave to you first.

13. Remember that this type of situation has never really worked out in your favor before.

14. Give it time. I know it sucks, I know it hurts, I know it’s frustrating. But at the end of the day, it just takes time.