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Why it’s OK To Make The First Move

This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at U Mass Amherst chapter.

“I really, really like him. He seems amaaaaazing!”

“Ok, why don’t you talk to him?”

“No, are you kidding me? I need to play it cool.”

“Yeah, I guess you’re right.”

Does this conversation seem all too familiar? You are attracted and antsy to see if he feels the same, so you end up waiting for him to come around. Let’s face it: we all want that Hollywood, air-brushed, Rom-Com moment to make its way into our lives.

Sadly, we live in reality, and many times that never happens. We end up feeling pretty crappy when our fantasies are diminished, and the year goes by without even a “hi” in passing. So, I’m here to tell all you beautiful Collegiettes some words of wisdom: making the first move might just be the best thing you could ever do.

An overused but extremely empowering statement comes in especially handy with this situations – a motto I try to abide by each and everyday – “a confident you is a happy you.”

The standards of beauty we are exposed to everyday that seem “unattainable” are nothing but a bottomless mindset. You are invincible and beautiful in every single way. When you realize that, nothing can stop you. First impressions are key and by taking the initiative – you have already nailed your image, no matter what the outcome is. What matters is that you tried and didn’t leave it in the other person’s hands (who may’ve not even noticed if you had never said anything). By taking that risk and putting yourself out there, you are empowered, and most definitely sexy.

Many of us crave a classic chase – the guy puts himself out there, and that’s where it all begins. When does that dynamic become overrated? Or as I’ve said, what if that “hello” never comes due to his oblivion of your interest? This male-dominated sequence seems all too boring, and chances are he will be stunned at your boldness. Who knows, he may be just as scared or shy as you!

In the worst of events, you will be rejected for whatever (stupid) reason. There might be some uncomfortable eye contact in a class or a head down when walking by each other. Who cares? This is the point where you pick up and move on. It may be tough to do so but it’s not the end of the world. I want to stress the fact that this should not in any way, hinder your refreshed mindset. There are a plethora of boys who will appreciate your confidence more than anything. 

So I’m putting all of you up to the challenge: make that defining move. Put on your best smile. Keep your head high and say hello. Ask to get breakfast, lunch, or dinner. See if they want to study for the next test. Or just right out tell them you’re interested and would like to get to know them better. There are no doubts in my mind this will be a positive experience – not only in testing your courage, but setting a new benchmark in yourself you’d never thought could come out. 

Take the leap, Collegiettes!

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Contributors from the University of Massachusetts Amherst