The foundation of any good relationship is friendship. You cant just be lovers but you have to be able to be friends as well. So why not date your friend? This way, you can skip the awkward getting to know each other stage. Friends usually have things in common and you already like your friend so you dont have to worry that the date will be horrible and you have to think of ways to escape. But then dating your friends is a No-No for a lot of people for fear of wrecking the friendship. Trust me, it can be done.

First, it doesnt matter how long you have been feeling for him/her, just dont confess your undying love for them, it will just freak them out. Second, you have to be prepared that your friend might not feel the same way or does not like the idea of dating a friend. So try to keep it simple, No means No. Dont take the rejection personally. Let them know youre interested and if they feel the same way, go for it! Be careful though because your relationship will change as the element of romance is added. Continue to strengthen your friendship. Communication will be important if you still want to keep your friendship in case things dont work out. Make sure you have an understanding that the dating doesnt have to continue if either party is not comfortable with it.