How to tell a man how bad you want him

Before you say anything big, look at what he's already doing. Does he ask you questions back? Does he suggest things, or does he only respond? A man who keeps the conversation going and makes small plans is giving you a signal. A man who answers in one word and never asks anything has told you less, even if the messages are friendly.

Also look at timing. If he replies quickly and writes more than you do, he's probably interested. If you're doing most of the work and his replies are getting shorter, your message should be lighter and aimed at getting a plan, not at revealing how much you feel. Matching his effort is usually the most accurate read you can get.

A lot of messages try to say three things at once: I like you, I'm a fun person, and I'm not too much. Usually one clear point lands better. Decide what it is. Often it's simply that you'd like to see him again, or that you enjoy talking to him and want to keep doing it in person.

Once you know the point, say it in a way that leaves him room to answer. A specific reference to something he said shows you were paying attention, and an invitation or a question gives him an easy next move. If the message would still make sense with the feeling taken out, you've probably got the balance right.

The strongest way to show you want someone is usually to propose time together. A specific suggestion, like a day, a place, or an activity, tells him you're interested without needing a speech about it. It also moves things past texting, where most of the uncertainty lives.

If he agrees, you've learned what you needed to. If he deflects or stays vague, you can ask once more with a different option, then let it sit. Repeatedly pushing for a date after a clear no or a vague non-answer turns interest into pressure, and most men will pull back at that point.