A lot of people will tell you to be persistent when you really like someone. And it’s good advice. Being persistent means you show intent, letting this person know that you are their only focus.
A lot of times, you can lose someone who really likes you by being too vague about your intentions or failing to make it clear what you want.
It’s good to feel wanted. So if you really like someone, make sure they know it. Now comes the ‘but.’ Unfortunately, sometimes persistence does not come out as romantic. It becomes pushy, annoying, and desperate. None of these things will make her want you more.
Dating can be challenging because of that line. You want her to recognize your intentions, but sometimes, what you do does not feel like enough. And you could easily go overboard and scare her off. Still, it is not to say that you should give up.
You just need to be persistent in a way that actually attracts her. You have to be the same confident man you are, but also respectful and intentional.
Learn more about how to be persistent without losing points in this article.
Being confident shows that you’re sure of yourself and your intentions. Women appreciate confidence because it demonstrates what you really want: her! It is good to be confident when interacting with her.
When texting or talking to a woman, show your interest without hesitation, but keep it simple and respectful.
For example, instead of saying, “I think you’re amazing, please go out with me,” try something more direct like, “I’d like to get to know you better, how about a coffee?” This adjusted statement shows you are confident but leaves room for her to politely reject it if she is not ready for it.
Confidence is key to be persistent without being pushy, as it shows that you value both yourself and the person you’re interested in.
To be persistent doesn’t mean constant pressure. After you express your interest, give her time to respond and think. Do not make her feel like she needs to make a decision there and then.
So when you ask her out, do not expect a response immediately, and do not rush for one, either. If she doesn’t reply to a message immediately, wait at least 48 hours before sending a polite follow-up. It’s enough time to come off as persistent, not pushy.
Giving space shows that you respect her time and decisions, which helps you avoid looking needy. Being persistent means showing interest but also knowing when to step back. It’s a clear line; don’t cross it.
You have to pay attention to the cues she gives about what makes her comfortable. Just because you want to be persistent does not mean you should ignore what she says or how she acts. If she mentions something that feels like a boundary, such as needing more time or space, respect it.
For example, if she says she’s not ready for a relationship, this is a clear boundary. Do not assume she’s playing hard to get or does not know what she wants. So, avoid pushing for more dates immediately. Respecting boundaries is key to maintaining persistence without crossing into desperation.
Persistence works best when it’s rooted in genuine interest. Ask about her interests, hobbies, and opinions. Always talking about yourself is not persistence. Just because you talk a lot does not mean you are showing her you are interested.
To be seen is to be loved. So show her that you see her when you plan dates or choose topics for discussions.
For instance, if she mentions liking art, talk about a gallery, or plan a date at an exhibit nearby. Focusing on what she cares about shows that you’re interested in her as a person, not just in dating her. It keeps the interaction respectful and meaningful.
Consistency is important when you want to be persistent. Gone are the days when you ignore a woman to make her want you more. Ignoring her only sends the wrong message. So, make sure to follow up and check in with her.
But only do so with a light touch. Consistency does not mean being there 24/7 lurking. For example, if you’ve asked her out and she says she’s busy over the weekend, wait a few days and ask again. A simple “How about next weekend?” shows you’re interested without being overbearing. Consistency shows that you’re genuinely interested but also respectful of her time and space.
Using humor is a great way to be persistent without seeming desperate. A playful, lighthearted comment can keep the conversation fun and relaxed.
For example, if she’s unsure about a date, a light joke like, “I promise not to make you watch bad movies if we go out!” keeps the tone casual. It’s light-hearted and keeps things casual so she does not feel pressured.
Humor shows that you’re not taking yourself too seriously, which can make her feel more comfortable. But do not overdo it; otherwise, it will become stale.
Sending too many messages, especially if she hasn’t responded yet, comes off as desperate and even creepy. If she hasn’t replied after your initial message, wait before sending a follow-up. Don’t be the guy who sends ten messages at a go. It’s a quick way to get blocked and forgotten.
Texting or calling her repeatedly within a few hours looks like you’re trying too hard. It may even come off as stalking, which can be overwhelming and push her away. It’s not the right way to be persistent. It’s important to be patient.
If she takes a while to reply, don’t complain or point it out. When you take a little too long to respond to someone, do you want to be called out for it? Of course not, so do not do it to her. Saying things like, “Why haven’t you responded yet?” makes you look controlling and pushy.
Instead, when she does respond, keep things light and positive. For example, reply with a friendly message that keeps the conversation going. That’s the respectful way to be persistent. Patience is key in showing persistence without seeming clingy or upset.
Remember that thing I said about keeping a watch for her cues? Well, that does not mean that you should overanalyze every single thing she says. Overthinking every small thing she says or does can make you appear insecure.
Even if you do not bring it up with her, it’s always going to be bugging you. It’s going to be something in the back of your mind itching and influencing your decisions that could ruin the relationship before it even begins.
If she doesn’t reply immediately, don’t jump to conclusions about her interest. Avoid sending messages like, “Did I say something wrong?” or “Are you mad at me?” without any clear indication of it. This kind of behavior can make you seem needy.
To be persistent also means giving her time to respond at her own pace without overanalyzing every interaction.
It’s normal to think that you need to make a grand gesture to be persistent. What better way to let her know of your intentions than serenading her on a random Tuesday outside her workplace just as she steps out of the building? There are other ways, obviously; save that one for your anniversary.
Despite what most people think, grand gestures early in the relationship can come off as over-the-top and desperate. For example, buying her expensive gifts or planning a big date after only knowing her for a short time can feel overwhelming.
Instead, focus on small, thoughtful actions that show you’re interested but not trying too hard. It’s important to pace the relationship naturally, rather than forcing things too quickly.
After a while, it may feel like you’ve been ‘patient long enough’ or ‘trying for long enough.’ When you develop such feelings, you may be drawn to manipulation through guilt and pressure. For example, saying things like, “I’ve been waiting for a long time to see you,” when she turns you down for a date.
It will make her feel uncomfortable. You must avoid making her feel guilty or pressuring her into spending time with you.
Instead of trying to guilt her into a response or a date, remain positive and let her make her own decisions. Guilt trips or pressure will only push her further away, making it harder for you to build a genuine connection.
Being persistent does not mean completely ignoring what she wants. It means showing interest respectfully. Therefore, even though you want her to know your intentions, make sure she is comfortable and feels respected.
A good rule to follow is showing her the respect that you would want from her. In addition, avoid playing games if you are trying to be persistent. Be direct and honest; it’s always the best way to go!