Letter
Dear Editor,
Every morning, I stop by the Starbucks downstairs from my office to grab a coffee. For the past few weeks, I’ve often run into the same guy there. He looks really friendly and happens to be exactly my type. We’ve shared a few brief glances, but I’ve never had the courage to say anything.
On my way home after work, I keep thinking about him. Sometimes I even imagine how things might be different if I had just said “hi.” But the truth is, I didn’t.
Does this count as a missed connection? I don’t know if I should just let it go, or if there’s something I can still do.
— A conflicted girl
Reply
Dear Reader,
Thank you for sharing this moment of heart-fluttering hesitation. A missed connection is one of the most common romantic scenes in city life — a glance, a smile, a spark of attraction — and yet, it often leaves us wondering what could have been. So what should you do afterward?
Here are some practical steps:
1. Get yourself ready
First impressions matter. Next time you head to Starbucks, wear an outfit you feel great in, and maybe do your makeup in a way that makes you feel more confident. Even if you don’t end up talking to him, this small ritual will boost your courage.
2. Show up at the same time to build familiarity
Here’s a subtle but effective trick: go around the same time each day. It creates a sense of routine, making your presence feel natural and familiar to him. To him, it may look like coincidence — but really, you’re quietly giving the connection more chances to grow.
3. Start with nonverbal signals
You don’t need to dive straight into conversation. Begin with small gestures: a quick smile, a gentle nod. Over time, repeated eye contact will feel more comfortable, and it gives him the chance to respond.
4. Use light, casual conversation starters
When you’re ready to speak, keep it simple and low-pressure. Try something like, “It’s always so crowded here in the mornings,” or “Do you also come here often?” Everyday topics are the easiest way to break the ice.
5. Set yourself a deadline
Don’t let this drag on forever. Give yourself a gentle goal, like saying “Good morning” by the end of the week. This way, you won’t stay stuck in daydreams without action.
6. Accept any outcome
Maybe you’ll connect, maybe you won’t. But what matters is that you tried. Even if nothing comes of it, you’ll walk away with a lighter heart knowing you gave yourself a chance.
Final thought
A missed connection is really an invitation — a reminder that life still holds space for romance. Instead of letting regret live only in your imagination, take a small step. With just a bit of courage, you might transform “missed” into “made.”
