The movie Hitch introduced the idea of a ‘window of opportunity’ to make an impression on the object of your affection, suggesting you only get one shot at getting it right. I don’t believe you only get one chance, but timing is crucial.
When someone catches your eye and you want to pursue them, you proactively try to express your interest. Often, you might lose hope and stop trying because they don’t reciprocate or didn’t notice your subtle gestures. This on-and-off, proactive/non-proactive state you fall into is likely what the person you like is experiencing too. They might be interested in you as well, but both parties need to be in sync.
When I was little, I believed everyone in the world was paired with another person. Your destined partner would be connected to you by an invisible red string of fate, so no matter how far apart you were, you’d always find each other again. Sometimes I’m scared I’m mistakenly connected to someone else’s partner, and one day, the mistake will be noticed and corrected, leaving me waiting for my true other half to come along.
Dating is essentially the time you spend with someone to see if you’re compatible for marriage. Each day should bring you a step closer to determining if you’re right for each other. Maybe I’m impatient or apprehensive, but I can’t wait for the day when we BOTH know it.