The love of your life is right under your nose. You can talk to her about anything, and you have been through so much together. But making the transition from platonic relationship to romantic relationship is very difficult when she sees you as a friend. This does not mean you will never be in the kind of relationship you want to be in with this person. But it takes time and patience, and a little good old-fashioned romance.
"She just might realize that you are 'boyfriend material' after all."
How To Take The Next Step In A Platonic Relationship:
Be more careful of what you say. Friends can tell each other all of the gritty details of their lives. They can talk about really personal things such as waxing body hair and constipation. It is easier for someone to see you in a more romantic light if there is a little mystery. Funny, gross stories should be few and far between.
Ask for advice. Sharing more personal stories and emotions are important when in a romantic relationship. A potential girlfriend will find you to be more sensitive if you are able to open up to her. In some cases, you might not feel ready to be vulnerable in front of her. This should happen on its own.
Treat her like a woman. When you are friends with a girl or woman, you can treat her like one of the guys. You might hang out and make crude jokes about each other for fun. But to bring out the feminine side of her, you will have to start acting differently. Be more courteous towards her, and show her that you can be a gentleman.
Show her that you are changing. You will have to change her outlook of you dramatically if you want her to see you as a potential boyfriend. When she realizes that you are maturing and taking more responsibility in your life, for example, she might just realize that you are boyfriend material after all.
Take her out. When you feel confident enough, just ask her out on a date. You will have to make it clear that you intend for it to be a romantic date, rather than another hang-out. The worst she can say is no. It is very important to have confidence when asking her out. Be simple, direct, and clear. If you are too mushy or show a lot of emotion, she will be afraid of hurting your feelings. The key is to go out with her if she wants to, but, if she doesn't, not run the risk of losing your relationship.
If she says no. It is critical to understand that if you really enjoy her company, you will be happy to just hang out with her as a friend. Chances are, she might avoid you after you ask her out for a while. But if you're a true friend and you really want to remain friends with her, you can tell her that it's okay.
If she says yes. Even if she does like you back, you will need to make a good impression on your first date. Show her what it would be like to date you. The date should be fun and relaxed, but have a different atmosphere than as if you were just hanging out.
Whether or not you are able to take the next step in a platonic relationship and turn it into something more, you should see your friend as someone you will always love and admire.