Is texting first most of the time clingy during the talking stage

You text first four days in a row. She replies each time, but it takes 3 to 6 hours. Her responses are two to four words. You ask her a question, she answers it, but doesn't ask you anything back. That's the pattern that signals imbalance, not the act of texting first itself.

Compare that to: you text first, she replies within an hour with a real answer, she sometimes texts you something without you prompting, or she asks you follow-up questions. That's someone interested who happens to be less of a morning texter. Big difference. The talking stage is supposed to be two people testing connection. If only one person is steering the ship, that's what needs to change.

The move is simple: text first one or two times, then wait for her to initiate. Don't announce this. Just do it. If she texts you within a few days, great, she's interested. If she goes silent for a week, you have your answer and you don't need to keep pushing.

When you do text, keep it light and easy to respond to. A question or a small observation that doesn't demand a novel back. If she replies, engage naturally. If she replies hours later with one word, that's information. Next time you wait longer before texting, or you don't. You're gathering data, not performing for her attention.

If you text first and she doesn't respond for over 24 hours, wait for her to text you before you send another message. If you're texting first every 2 to 3 days and she's never the one reaching out, give it one more try a week later. If she still doesn't initiate, you're done. Not because you did something wrong, but because the effort isn't mutual.

Don't send a follow-up text after no response. Don't get mad and send a sarcastic message. Just stop. If she liked talking to you, she'll text you. She has your number. She knows you exist. Silence after you've been the primary initiator for a few weeks is a clear signal. Accept it and move on.