Sending a flirty, aka "risky", text to a person you are trying to impress is nerve racking, especially if you aren’t sure where you stand with said person. Because we place so much emphasis on how we communicate with people via technology, texting plays a huge role in the formation or continuation of any potential relationship. However, sometimes finding just the right thing to say becomes a monumental task. Because of this, I have broken down the process of sending a “risky” text in order to prove just how much we overthink the process.

1. Shock

Oh my gosh, did he actually just text me? He couldn’t have. Maybe it was an accident. He probably meant to send that to someone else. But he asked about my sick dog in his text. Who else has a sick dog? And I know for a fact I talked about that with him in class yesterday. It probably was meant for me after all!

2. Fear

Ok, how do I respond? I want to seem witty but also fun and flirty. I know, I’ll send a screenshot of the text to my friends so they can help me form a response. Why aren’t my friends texting me back? It’s been like 10 minutes since he sent the text! He will think I’m ignoring him if I don’t respond soon. What do I say??

3. Resolution

Ok this will do. It’s slightly risky but no risk no reward, right? I just need to send it already, it’s been way too long. Ok, and… sent!

4. Regret

Wait, why on earth did I just send that? He will think I’m so creepy! Why did my friends think that was a good idea? It’s literally been 20 minutes and he hasn’t responded. I’ll just be single the rest of my life, it’s fine. You know what? No. I am an independent young lady and I do not need anyone to define me. Who cares if a stupid guy doesn’t text me back? Not me!

5. Relief

Thank god he finally responded! Aw and his text is so cute! It was definitely worth the wait. Why was I freaking out so much earlier? I’m totally fine. I can handle texting someone on my own. I need to stop overreacting.