Don't rush. But don't go too slowly, or you might get FZ'ed. If your "friends" rib you about hanging out with a girl you like, there are basically two ways to respond. Either take the "we're just friends" route, or put your arm around her and ask "Why, you jealous or something?" There are pros and cons to each path. The WJF path could lead to the friendzone, but it's not a bad path to take. The "Jelly?" path might lead to you getting a small rejection, but will definitely show that you can hold your own in verbal sparring (a critical life skill to have), and also has the added benefit of breaking the touch barrier. Get a wingman. Things are always easier when you have a friend helping you, so why should dating be any different? He (or she) can give you openings, prevent awkwardness, and generally watch your back. Simmilarly, girls- esp. in middle school- like to form cliques. Get to know the other members of your potential girlfriend's clique. Go to the school's social activities. Find someone to hang out with there. If you know that the girl you like is going to the dance, you might be able to hang out with her before it starts, or after it ends. Get good at comebacks and putdowns, even if that's not the type of person you are. Especially if that's not the type of person you are. Unfortunately, that's how the world works. If you become proficient, you can minimize your involvement on verbal fights. And, it always helps score compassion points if you stick up for someone who's being teased. If it's that girl, even better! What makes you YOU? What are you good at? I'm good at math, so my opening can be helping with math homework. What have you done? What are you proud of? Why are the other guys worse than you? Try to build your self-esteem. Don't worry if you do get rejected. You're in MIDDLE SCHOOL, FER CRIS SAKES! It's not the end of the world. You might want to see these threads as well: Dating Advice for Nerds/Geeks Advice for Dealing with Rejection? They're in the Space Lounge forum.