23.
“Queer and agender (AMAB) right here. Platonic friendships have at all times meant extra to me than romantic relationships by way of precedence due to how my household was rising up (I’d say this can be a pretty widespread expertise for queer folks, to be truthful). Nonetheless, I used to be like that earlier than I made a decision to discover my queerness. Nonetheless, as a ‘straight male’ in my previous, I can 100% affirm I’ve hit on platonic mates and regretted studying into issues. On the similar time, I’ve been on the opposite facet of it (getting hit on by platonic mates), and I understand how uncomfortable it feels. IDK if everybody wants this tough and quick rule; nevertheless, should you’re ‘scorching,’ the truth is lots of people will need greater than platonic interactions with you.”
“For me, accepting that actuality is step one to determining what is going to be just right for you by way of interacting with folks you can theoretically get romantic with, assuming mutual curiosity. I’d additionally say the extent of issues issues — in the event that they method issues respectfully and might deal with rejection and never be bizarre transferring ahead, the connection will be salvaged. Nonetheless, lots of people (straight males aren’t alone on this) can’t try this, and I’d assume she’s had sufficient detrimental experiences the place she felt she needed to institute this rule for herself. Mainly, all of it is determined by how you’re as an individual, and if this is smart to you, it’s in all probability for good motive.”
—Nameless, 33; Washington, DC