Almost everyone is familiar with the When Harry met Sally scenario—the situation wherein people who start as friends eventually become lovers later on. In fact, some people have lived that experience. Of all people, they would know that changing a relationship from platonic to romantic is difficult at best. Just as there are some people who succeed in such transition, there are more people who fail in that endeavor. If you are one of those people who are beginning to see a buddy in a different light, read the rest of the article before making a move.

The first thing you should do is consider your situation carefully. While it is possible that your bond with your pal is proof that you really are soulmates, it is also possible that it can be a temporary fixation or merely lust. Don’t do anything immediately. Let time pass and see if the impulse to hook up goes away. If you date immediately and it proved to be nothing but a fleeting fancy, you can be sure you and your pal won’t be friends for long. Before you take the leap, make sure the feelings are for real first.

As you contemplate, ask yourself some questions. Why didn’t you and your friend try dating each other in the past? If you and your pal were involved with other people when you first met, or had other things to attend to that is no longer there, maybe you can go beyond being friends now. Nonetheless, if you had more than one opportunity to hook up before but didn’t, maybe it isn’t such a good idea to pursue romance at this point.

Once you’re sure your affection for your friend is the real thing, the next thing you should do is try to see if he or she feels the same way. If you ask him/her out and he/she doesn’t like you the same way, you’d stop being friends immediately. Be subtle when trying to determine the feelings of the other party. Jokingly tell your friend about how you two seem like dating already. Make your tone light and innocent. If the response is negative, don’t try to push it.

The moment you’re sure the feeling is mutual, then you can make your move. Try flirting with him or her first. Gradually increase physical contact as you two continue to be together. Then hopefully, the two of you, who used to be friends, will have a long-term romantic relationship.