He is 6 years younger: could he like me, could we work?

[SnowyOwl]

I met him at an event, we became friends then. We don't really talk often, I work, he's in university. He's given me mixed signals over the past year... from being 110% present for me, to cancelling last minute... I have a stupid crush on him which I believe I've managed pretty well so far. When I was in university I didn't want a relationship because I was too busy and too focused, so I wonder if that's just the case for him.
I guess I'm asking, how should I move forward?
I don't wanna be forceful, especially if someone is not actually interested.
I think we have enough in common that I can accept being casual friends for now.
But I also do have some interest and it's sort of there annoying me in the back of my head xD
I think he's interesting and I'd like to know him more though before I can actually say i'd date him.. but I don't know how to develop a friendship whilst having a greater interest.
What would you do in this situation?
just fyi, we are both in our 20s

[Cripplingkingship]

If you really like him, just ask him for a coffe and a cake some where. It doesn't have to be a big fancy meal.

If I liked you, that what i do. It doesn't have to be expensive to date.

[SnowyOwl]

Aw, this made me laugh because I just imagined me asking him " can I please have a coffee and a cake? " Just like that xD... But that's sweet actually I see what you mean... I actually hung out with him to practice and interview, so it wasn't really a date... But he paid my coffee which felt sweet... But I guess , would you suggest I say the word date next time? Because that's what I'm struggling with I guess... I can't tell if he'd actually wanna go on a date because of the mixed signals there has been... I also feel like he agreed to hangout because it was a work related thing and maybe he likes helping... 🫣 I wish my brain could make this simple

[Cripplingkingship]

Personally, I wouldn't date someone at work, I have experienced and heard people dating in workplace, when things go south, it forces someone to leave.

I don't think he would hang out with you regardless if was work related if he didn't like you. People generally don't socialise with others they don't like.

I think you need to actually ask out on a date for a coffee, yes the cake is a small meal lol. cause just asking for a coffee, can mean anything to him.

[Cripplingkingship]

Have tried dating other men, don't limit your options to one men. Dating should be seen as going for job interviews, don't just apply for one job, you apply for mutiple jobs. Dating is the about getting know someone and seeing if you like each other, before getting into a relationship.

Never limit your options in the dating world, until you have settled into a relationship. Don't let your feeling decide everything for you. Feelings for someone doesn't mean, he is a great guy. Use your brains not your feelings to judge someone.

[SnowyOwl]

Oh sorry for the misunderstanding. We don't work at the same place, we were just preparing an interview together.. yea at the very least I know he appreciates me in some way

[SnowyOwl]

Haha yea I get it.. I don't like to date around usually I can only focus on one person... But I understand.. tho I'm too busy as well to date around, haha... Guess that's why I became hyper focused on him.
I mean, I've had long term relationships in the past, so I'm already past the face of 'seeing where it goes'... I know what I want so I'm keeping an eye out for that..

by the way I appreciate the time you took to give me a perspective!

[Cripplingkingship]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cblfsOIakhk&t=635s I suggest you watch matthew hussey on dating tips and relationships, he is awesome, may be open eyes to a lot of stuff, the do's and don't to dating. Just given an example to one of his videos.

[Cripplingkingship]

www.youtube.com/watch?v=JFgAJ7K_LNQ

[Cripplingkingship]

What I suggest you do, gain your knowledge into the dating world and how people work, like listening this guy, because then you will find it easier to navigate it. Listening to biased opinions, will not help you, like this site.
One tip this guy gave, Is chase the right things in your life, and not the wrong things in your life. Chasing the wrong person etc, will only lead to fustration and resentment.

[Cripplingkingship]

www.youtube.com/watch?v=dR-plImpf_8&t=4944s listen to this podcast on dating, I have learn and an incredible from this podcast on dating and relationship, Trust me will do you justice, with knowledge.

[Cripplingkingship]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=02Z4FVNuBvc

[bowenw]

That is not a huge age difference in the grand scheme of things. I suggest you try to see as much as you can of each other to see if there is more to it for both of you than a friendship.

[SnowyOwl]

thanks! yea I would like to see him more. I'm just trying to be mindful that he's really busy as a student who also works.. And I feel kind of 'meh' about being the one who is always trying to make plans, so I don't know if i should keep doing that?

[bowenw]

It has to be a two-way thing in my opinion with both parties putting in an effort.

[bowenw]

Thank you for the MHO. 😊

[AI Opinion]

Ah, the dance of mixed signals and crushes – a familiar tune! You're on Girls Ask Guys, and I'm here to make things a bit spicier. Being friends with a sprinkle of “what if” can feel like a romcom. Since you're vibing on him, aim for more hangouts to see if those signals turn into something more definitive. Keep it light-hearted, like testing the romantic waters without diving in headfirst. ✨ If things evolve, great! If not, you've got yourself a cool friend who brings out your smiley side. No rushing, no pressures, just good Old California fun! 🌞

[Avicenna]

Maybe- you're both adults, so give it a try

[MK1997]

Yes of course

[msc545]

Yes...