What is that Nervous Feeling When You Like Someone?

Ever get that nervous, butterflies-in-your-stomach feeling when you're around someone you like? It's like your brain turns into a scrambled mess, and you're just trying not to say something ridiculous. Trust me, we’ve all been there. So, what’s going on with that feeling? Let’s dive in!

Understanding the Nervous Feeling

It’s Your Body’s Way of Responding to Stress

When you like someone, your body goes into overdrive—like when you're about to give a presentation, but way more intense (and maybe a little more awkward). That nervous feeling is your body's "fight or flight" response at play. It's all thanks to adrenaline and cortisol, the stress hormones. They flood your system because your brain perceives being around someone you like as both thrilling and a little... stressful.

You might start feeling your heart race, palms sweat, and your stomach drop (hello, butterflies!). It’s a physical reaction that, honestly, can feel like a rollercoaster—exciting but a bit scary. This has actually been studied. Studies show that when we get emotionally aroused (like when we see someone attractive), our body reacts just like it would to a stressful situation, only this time, the stress is tied to emotional excitement. Strange, right?

Your Brain Is Overstimulated

So, why do we feel "nervous" instead of just happy or excited? Well, it's the brain trying to process those intense emotions. You’re excited, yes, but you're also worried about how you'll be perceived. Will they like you back? Will you say something silly? Your brain gets all wrapped up in these thoughts, and that overthinking creates a sense of nervousness. It's like you’re on edge, constantly checking if they’re noticing you, or worse—wondering if you’ve already said something embarrassing.

The Chemistry Behind the Feeling

The Role of Dopamine and Oxytocin

When you like someone, your brain releases dopamine, the "feel-good" chemical. Dopamine is the same thing that makes you feel like you're on cloud nine when you get a new crush or even a new hobby. But here's the kicker: oxytocin, which is known as the "bonding hormone," also kicks in. This is what makes you feel emotionally connected to someone.

Together, dopamine and oxytocin create that high—a mix of excitement and connection that makes everything feel a little... intense. It’s a rush that you want to last forever, but it also makes you jittery, hence all those butterflies.

I remember talking to a friend recently who was feeling these nerves around someone she liked. She said it was like she couldn’t keep her thoughts straight. And honestly, that’s because when dopamine and oxytocin mix, you get this almost addictive excitement. Your body craves that connection, but it makes you second-guess everything at the same time.

Is Nervousness a Bad Thing?

It’s Actually a Sign of Attraction

Here’s the thing: that nervous feeling? It’s totally normal and even a good sign! It means you care about the person. If you weren't feeling nervous at all, it could mean you’re not as invested in the situation. The fact that your heart skips a beat when they look at you? It shows you're feeling something real. So instead of trying to avoid the nerves, embrace them!

In fact, some studies suggest that a little bit of nervousness can actually make you seem more attractive. When we feel nervous, we tend to appear more vulnerable, and guess what? Vulnerability is often seen as endearing and approachable. People like authenticity, so showing that you’re human and have emotions can be a great thing.

Too Much Nervousness Can Be Overwhelming

But, okay, let’s be real—sometimes that nervousness can take over. If you’re constantly anxious and can’t even form a sentence around them, it’s not going to do you any favors. I’ve been there too—during a date, I once spilled my drink because my hand was shaking so much. Not exactly the smoothest move.

Sometimes, the nerves can escalate into anxiety, which might make you avoid situations where you could interact with them. And that, unfortunately, can create unnecessary distance. So, it’s all about balance. A little nervousness is fine, but if it’s keeping you from acting naturally, it might be time to take a breather.

How to Handle the Nervous Feeling

Take a Deep Breath and Be Yourself

The best advice I can give? Take a deep breath and just be yourself. I know, I know, easier said than done. But trust me—when you stop trying so hard to control the situation, the nervousness tends to lessen. Focus on being present and enjoying the moment with the person. If you’re constantly thinking about what you’re doing wrong, you’ll never actually connect.

This advice might sound cliché, but it works. I had a friend once who would literally rehearse everything she’d say before meeting someone she liked. It was exhausting, and guess what? It didn’t work. The moment she started being real, the nerves started to fade. People like authenticity. (And if you trip over a word or two? That’s just part of being human.)

Accept the Nerves and Laugh at Yourself

If you mess up or say something weird, laugh it off. Everyone gets nervous, and chances are, they’re feeling the same way. I’ve had my share of embarrassing moments—like once, I accidentally called my date by the wrong name. It was awkward for a solid 30 seconds, but hey, we both laughed about it, and the tension melted away.

So, yeah, nervousness isn’t something you should try to fight. Instead, accept it as part of the excitement. It’s a reminder that you care and that something special might be on the horizon.

Conclusion: Embrace the Nervousness

In the end, that nervous feeling is just your body’s way of showing you that you’re experiencing something powerful. It’s a sign of attraction, and even though it feels overwhelming, it can also be thrilling. So, the next time you feel those butterflies in your stomach, don’t fight them. Embrace them. Because it’s all part of the beautiful, messy process of liking someone. You’ve got this.

Is 165 cm normal for a 15 year old?

The predicted height for a female, based on your parents heights, is 155 to 165cm. Most 15 year old girls are nearly done growing. I was too. It's a very normal height for a girl.

Is 160 cm too tall for a 12 year old?

How Tall Should a 12 Year Old Be? We can only speak to national average heights here in North America, whereby, a 12 year old girl would be between 137 cm to 162 cm tall (4-1/2 to 5-1/3 feet). A 12 year old boy should be between 137 cm to 160 cm tall (4-1/2 to 5-1/4 feet).

How tall is a average 15 year old?

Average Height to Weight for Teenage Boys - 13 to 20 Years

How to get taller at 18?

Staying physically active is even more essential from childhood to grow and improve overall health. But taking it up even in adulthood can help you add a few inches to your height. Strength-building exercises, yoga, jumping rope, and biking all can help to increase your flexibility and grow a few inches taller.

Is 5.7 a good height for a 15 year old boy?

Generally speaking, the average height for 15 year olds girls is 62.9 inches (or 159.7 cm). On the other hand, teen boys at the age of 15 have a much higher average height, which is 67.0 inches (or 170.1 cm).

Can you grow between 16 and 18?

Most girls stop growing taller by age 14 or 15. However, after their early teenage growth spurt, boys continue gaining height at a gradual pace until around 18. Note that some kids will stop growing earlier and others may keep growing a year or two more.

Can you grow 1 cm after 17?

Even with a healthy diet, most people's height won't increase after age 18 to 20. The graph below shows the rate of growth from birth to age 20. As you can see, the growth lines fall to zero between ages 18 and 20 ( 7 , 8 ). The reason why your height stops increasing is your bones, specifically your growth plates.