I buy into this "meant to be" business, but I can't help have a crisis of faith right now. While my inner hopeless (or delusionally hopeful) romantic would like to believe that the right person will come along, I wonder if I have to "play the game" a little better on my end too.
I recently disclosed to someone with whom I shared a mutual attraction/interest after a few dates. He's been incredibly understanding and thoughtful in reacting to the news, but that doesn't change the fact that the ultimate line is: "I like you a lot, but...not enough to risk it." (NB: I have never had an OB and regularly take suppressants.)
My question now is whether it's a matter of "I don't like you enough *yet*."
I recognize it might not have changed anything with this person, but I'm wondering if--moving forward--I can make the H more acceptable/palatable by building a stronger foundation first. This, however, seems to require that I no longer go with my gut (timing-wise) as I have been.
So on one hand, I don't want to let H hold me back from dating and letting connections develop naturally; on the other hand, I am starting to feel like I have to change something if I want more than a string of guys who've all seemed to become good friends (for which I am very grateful!) but nothing more. I admit I'm also afraid to invest even more into a potential relationship if I'll simply reach the same outcome.
It likely varies from person to person, but has anyone seen a difference between disclosing earlier vs. later?