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Met a guy I like, but he's reserved. How do I ask for a second meeting without sounding desperate?

Anu

Anu Krishna  |1345 Answers  |Ask -

Relationships Expert, Mind Coach - Answered on Dec 01, 2024

Anu Krishna is a mind coach and relationship expert.
The co-founder of Unfear Changemakers LLP, she has received her neuro linguistic programming training from National Federation of NeuroLinguistic Programming, USA, and her energy work specialisation from the Institute for Inner Studies, Manila.
She is an executive member of the Indian Association of Adolescent Health.... more
Asked by Anonymous - Nov 24, 2024Hindi
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Relationship

Hi Anu ma'am, hope you are well! I met a guy last week through arranged marriage set up.. we talked for about an hour and after coming out of the restaurant aslo, we spoke for about 1 more hour.. we both seem to be compatible education, salary wise, intellectually as well.. he is kind of more introvert than me.. doesn't speak much but still he wanted us to talk more n more.. its been a week now.. how do i ask him what's his opinion? To clear few more things i would like to meet more before final.decision... but how do i text him.. dont want to sound desperate ????.. kindly advise how to communicate? Thanks a lot!

Ans: Dear Anonymous,
Thank you, I am well and hope you are doing well too.

To want to get into the depth of life-changing event like choosing a life partner, is not called desperation but it's called clarification. And simply pick up the phone and call, why text?
Tell him that there are a few things that you would like to discuss with him and then let the conversation flow. I am sure that if he feels the same way about you and wants to make a decision, he too will come for his set of clarifications. Be clear and communicate your intent clearly.

All the best!
Anu Krishna
Mind Coach|NLP Trainer|Author
Drop in: www.unfear.io
Reach me: Facebook: anukrish07/ AND LinkedIn: anukrishna-joyofserving/

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Ravi

Ravi Mittal  |443 Answers  |Ask -

Dating, Relationships Expert - Answered on Nov 01, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Oct 29, 2024Hindi
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So, 2 weeks ago, I met a guy in arranged marriage setup. Well, I liked the guy by appearance but his parents asked for my opinion after the meeting from my parents. I didn’t oppose anything because I thought I would get some time to know this guy on personal level but within 3 weeks both families made decision and kind of fixed the marriage. However I told my father I am not ready yet, I’ll need some time. But his family is asking us to do roka ceremony for the confirmation. I am an introvert and I have multiple questions like does he believe in feminism and what exactly he knows about feminism these kind of questions. But being an introvert I am not able to ask such questions. Earlier I wasn’t feeling anything for him but since last week I kind of imagining my life with me but I still have doubts. What to do, how to ask questions indirectly.
Ans: Dear Anonymous,
Your concerns are totally valid; marriage is a serious decision and rushing into it isn't exactly ideal. I understand that you are an introvert and it is difficult for you to ask questions, but this person will be your partner for the rest of your life hopefully; I think you should put in the effort to get to know each other. Take baby steps- tell your parents that before agreeing to marry him, you would like to speak to him, ideally, over the phone first. This way, you can be a little more relaxed- start with a simple conversation and slowly move into more serious questions over the days. You can make him feel comfortable by first sharing your perspective- for instance, family planning, career, your likes and dislikes, your take on feminism, preferences, etc. You will be creating a safe space for him to open up about his thoughts and beliefs. Finally, plan to meet him face to face, where both of you will have a better scope of an open conversation. Once things are cleared up, you can say yes and have your peace of mind.

Do not worry about asking direct questions. It’s within your right to do so, as long as the questions are reasonable and respectful.

Best Wishes.

..Read more

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Kanchan

Kanchan Rai  |421 Answers  |Ask -

Relationships Expert, Mind Coach - Answered on Dec 01, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Dec 01, 2024Hindi
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Hello Ma'am, My name is [Anonymous]. I am 42 years old, divorced, and currently working abroad. I have a 7-year-old son who doesn't live with me, and I am looking to move on in life. I have a former colleague who is 38 years old. We worked together for six years, and she is also divorced. She is very professional and respects me a lot, always calling me "Sirji." We never discussed our personal lives while working together, but when I was leaving the company and serving my notice period, we started talking more about our personal lives. She was shocked to learn about my divorce, and I was equally surprised to find out about hers. Over the past six months, we’ve been talking regularly, and I have been helping her with her professional growth. Recently, we have been discussing moving on in life. I suggested that she find someone and settle down, but she shared with me that even her family doesn't talk about her personal life, though she appreciates my concern. She told me that she wants to marry someone from her community and religion, as she is vegetarian, but she is having trouble finding a suitable match. I suggested that she could consider someone from a different community, but she is afraid it wouldn't work out, and she would struggle to adjust. She has also encouraged me to find someone and move on in life. Sometimes, she jokes and tells me to find someone for her, but I believe she is a very good woman, and I have started developing feelings for her. However, I am afraid that if I ask her to consider me for marriage and she refuses, I could lose her as a good friend, and I really enjoy our conversations. Could you please offer me some advice on what I should do? ????
Ans: Before making a decision, reflect on your intentions and the nature of your feelings. Are they grounded in a strong foundation of mutual understanding and compatibility, or are they influenced by loneliness or a desire to move on from your past? Understanding this will help you approach the situation with clarity and confidence.

If you decide that your feelings are genuine and you’d like to explore the possibility of a deeper relationship, it’s important to communicate thoughtfully. Begin by affirming your respect for her and the friendship you share. You could say something like, "I value our friendship deeply and truly enjoy the conversations we have. Over time, I’ve found myself thinking about the possibility of something more between us. I understand and respect your preferences and your journey, but I wanted to share my feelings because I value honesty and openness in our connection."

This approach ensures that your feelings are expressed without putting pressure on her, and it allows her to consider the idea without feeling cornered. If she doesn’t feel the same way, you can express your understanding and emphasize that you would like to maintain the friendship.

It’s also worth considering her concerns about cultural compatibility. If this is a significant factor for her, you could discuss how you envision addressing potential challenges if the relationship were to progress. Showing empathy for her concerns and a willingness to navigate differences together might help her feel more secure.

Remember, vulnerability is a risk, but it’s also the foundation for meaningful connections. Whether or not she feels the same, being honest about your feelings allows you to move forward with clarity and authenticity. And regardless of her response, the friendship you’ve built is rooted in mutual respect, which provides a solid foundation for either outcome.

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Kanchan

Kanchan Rai  |421 Answers  |Ask -

Relationships Expert, Mind Coach - Answered on Dec 01, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Nov 25, 2024Hindi
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Hi I am in a relationship with a toxic girl and whenever I tell her it's not working she comes up with a threat of harming herself or involving her powerful family and dragging my dad. My dad is very strict and he doesn't like all of this what do I do
Ans: understand that you are not responsible for her actions or threats of self-harm. These are tactics of control, and while they may stem from her struggles, they are not your burden to carry. However, it’s important to approach the situation with empathy while prioritizing your own safety and boundaries.

When addressing her threats, avoid reacting emotionally. Stay calm and assertive, and make it clear that while you care about her well-being, her threats are not acceptable. For example, if she threatens self-harm, you can express concern by saying something like, "I’m worried about you, and I think it would be helpful for you to talk to someone who can support you professionally." This shifts the responsibility for her mental health away from you and encourages her to seek help.

You may also consider informing a trusted individual in her life—such as a close friend or family member—about her behavior. This way, someone who knows her can provide the support she needs, reducing the likelihood of her using threats to manipulate you.

Regarding her threats about involving her family or yours, document everything. Keep records of conversations, messages, or any threats she has made. This will be helpful in case the situation escalates and you need to protect yourself legally or socially. If you feel unsafe or believe she might follow through with her threats, consult a legal advisor or seek guidance from local authorities.

It’s also important to have an honest conversation with your father. While it might feel daunting because of his strict nature, being upfront about the situation can help you gain his understanding and support. Explain the steps you’re taking to manage it responsibly and emphasize that you’re prioritizing the family’s dignity and well-being.

Finally, prioritize your mental health. Being in a relationship with someone who uses manipulation can take a significant emotional toll. Consider reaching out to a therapist or counselor who can help you navigate this situation, reinforce healthy boundaries, and support you as you work through any guilt or anxiety. Ending the relationship may not be easy, but it is a necessary step for your well-being and peace of mind.

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Kanchan

Kanchan Rai  |421 Answers  |Ask -

Relationships Expert, Mind Coach - Answered on Dec 01, 2024

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Dear Mam I am a fifty year old man with a loving family. I was employed in a company which I left earlier. During COVID I was little stressed in another company on my job and I rejoined my earlier company. One of my female colleague who was in the earlier organisation during my first innings helped me to join the organisation and in my second innings we are the only two in the department. Naturally there are lots of conversations, communications, interactions related to work. She is around nine years younger than me and is unmarried. We used to share lots of moments in office like common topics, health, my family, friends, her parents, friends etc...apart from work. Gradually I started developing feelings for her. I have a notion that she also developed the same. There has neither been any physical intimacy nor joint outings outside office. But as you know both of us started to realise that I cannot sail in two boats at the same time and also she. Now we both share a very professional relation amongst us in the Office with boundaries and caution and rarely interact on issues other than office work. We still are the two in our department. Somehow I cannot delete the feelings for her from my mind and its more difficult as we are the only persons in our department and in constant touch for work But yes, I will never be able to leave my family. Please advise. Thanks and Regards,
Ans: The first step in addressing this is to recognize that feelings, while they can be powerful, do not define actions. You’ve already demonstrated a strong commitment to your family by maintaining boundaries and shifting your relationship with your colleague to a purely professional one. This shows a conscious effort to align your actions with your values, which is an important foundation.

It’s also important to reflect on what might have contributed to these feelings. They may not solely be about your colleague as a person but could also reflect unmet emotional needs, stress, or the appeal of a connection that feels easy and understanding during a challenging time in your life. Identifying these underlying factors can help you understand yourself better and redirect your energy toward strengthening your emotional connection with your family.

Managing the proximity with your colleague at work is understandably challenging. To maintain your professional relationship while protecting your personal boundaries, consider setting clear mental and emotional limits. Focus conversations strictly on work-related topics, avoid situations that might blur boundaries, and remind yourself regularly of your commitment to your family and the life you’ve built with them.

It might also help to channel the emotional energy you’ve felt toward this colleague into enhancing your relationship with your spouse. Reinvesting in your marriage—through shared activities, open communication, or even small gestures of affection—can help renew your bond and remind you of what is truly meaningful in your life.

If these feelings continue to linger and cause distress, speaking with a therapist or counselor could provide a safe space to process your emotions and explore strategies to cope. They can help you navigate this situation in a way that aligns with your values and preserves your emotional well-being.

The fact that you are seeking advice and prioritizing your family shows that you are deeply committed to doing the right thing. With time, effort, and self-awareness, you can navigate these emotions and maintain integrity in both your personal and professional life.

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Kanchan

Kanchan Rai  |421 Answers  |Ask -

Relationships Expert, Mind Coach - Answered on Dec 01, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Nov 29, 2024Hindi
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We had an Arranged Marriage, more than 3 years ago & planning to have Children since a Year. But my Wife had been Reluctant about the plan to get Pregnant. She was only into it Half-Heartedly, as she's also getting older. I never forced her & always tried to make her feel comfortable. But I was also worried about having Children, hence I felt that we might need to get ourselves Checked-up Medically for any issues in Fertility in either of us. As per my Medical Report, there was no issue with my Fertility. But my Wife was reluctant to get Tested. She agreed after a lot of Persuasion. When she was Examined by the Gynecologist, her Report Shocked me. My Wife already had an Abortion (which wasn't done well) & conceiving again would be very Difficult & Risky. When I confronted my Wife, she broke down & confessed everything. Apparently, she had been Sexually Active in a Relationship with her Boyfriend, while in College & got Pregnant, while still in her Teenage. Her cowardly Boyfriend had ditched her & her Parents got her Abortion done through some illegitimate means (as her age was a few months short of 18, by then). The Abortion had scarred her Physically, Mentally & Emotionally & hence conceiving again wouldn't be easy for her. But all this had been hidden from me, until then. Before committing for Marriage, she lied to me that she was Virgin (as I was also Virgin & asked for it, specifically). I had blindly Trusted her then, but now I feel that I have been Cheated by her entire Family. I sympathize with my Wife for all that she'd been through, at such an immature age, hence, I controlled myself from showing any of my Anger/Frustration on her. But I still feel that I had been cheated into this Marriage & my Relationship with her may never be the same again. I am thinking of Divorcing my Wife, amicably & Marry another Woman who's Fertile as well as Honest. Please advise me whether that would be the best approach or is there any other better suggestion, which you can give me, alternatively?
Ans: Your wife's past, though painful and hidden, appears to stem from decisions made at a young and vulnerable time in her life. Her secrecy was likely rooted in fear—of judgment, rejection, or being misunderstood. This doesn’t excuse the dishonesty, but it can offer insight into why she made the choices she did. Her confession, while delayed, shows vulnerability and trust in sharing something so deeply personal and painful. It also highlights her struggle to come to terms with her past and the scars it left, both physically and emotionally.

Divorce is a life-altering decision that should not be taken lightly, especially when you have invested years into this relationship. Before making such a decision, consider what truly matters to you in a partner and a marriage. Ask yourself whether this betrayal is something you believe you could work through with time, communication, and potentially professional guidance. Couples therapy could provide a safe space to explore these feelings, address the breach of trust, and determine whether rebuilding is possible.

It’s also worth reflecting on whether your decision is primarily influenced by her inability to conceive easily or by the breach of trust. Fertility challenges can be deeply emotional, but they are not insurmountable. Many couples facing similar issues have found joy through alternative paths to parenthood, such as medical interventions, surrogacy, or adoption. The honesty aspect, however, might require a deeper exploration of whether you can rebuild trust and feel secure in the relationship moving forward.

If you ultimately decide that this relationship is no longer viable for you, it’s important to approach the decision with empathy and respect. An amicable separation, grounded in a shared understanding of your reasons, can be a way to honor the time and emotions both of you have invested in this marriage.

Conversely, if there is still love and a willingness to navigate these challenges together, it may be possible to transform this crisis into an opportunity for deeper connection, understanding, and growth. Healing from this situation will require effort from both sides—honest communication, emotional openness, and a shared commitment to moving forward.

Ultimately, the best path is the one aligned with your values, emotional well-being, and long-term vision for your life.

...Read more

Anu

Anu Krishna  |1345 Answers  |Ask -

Relationships Expert, Mind Coach - Answered on Dec 01, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Nov 23, 2024
Relationship
Hi gurus, I am 24 yrs old girl, currently pursuing MBA from a middle class family. I have a 5 yr relationship with my boyfriend. I love him very much. Don't want to loose him. Maybe he also love me. But the problem start few days ago when he suddenly confessed me that he visit red light area thrice at the first year of our relationship. From those initial days we are in a serious relationship and family involved in this. But we don't intimate but virtual intimacy was there. But this year in january we for first time got intimate and after 4 time of intimacy he confess me this that he physical one time and two time just visit their to see naked dance but failed due to some reason. Now He told me that he felt it will be cheating if he not told me this now. One side I am depressed and fear to loose him. He repetitively beg pardon from me and told that this was his peer pressure and now he mature enough to say no this.. Now he can't imagine his life without me. I don't want to loose him but can't forgive or forgot this. Now he repeatedly told me to marry him and proposed me romantically. He repeatedly want pardon from me . I love him very much that I want to forget all things and start from first again. But will it be right, if I easily forgive him than is he got much confidence to do this again?? I am depressed and confused. Pls help me . What will be right decision in this situation? Forgive him or not?
Ans: Dear Anonymous,
Whether you want to forgive him or not is your decision. But I would wonder if he has confessed all of it. The risk of carrying infections from visiting these places is heavy; so before jumping into any physical act with him, do suggest to him that he gets himself tested. He may oppose it, but be firm on it.
You love him and that's all okay...But is he in love with you OR is he wants to be with you because his family is involved as well?

What is a red flag is the fact that he was still visiting red light areas while he was in a relationship with you. Do you not want to know why? Do you not want to know what makes him beg for your forgiveness now? Till such time that you are satisfied and you can trust him again, do not act in a hurry.

All the best!
Anu Krishna
Mind Coach|NLP Trainer|Author
Drop in: www.unfear.io
Reach me: Facebook: anukrish07/ AND LinkedIn: anukrishna-joyofserving/

...Read more

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