When a girl says that she wants to be friends with the guy she likes but also wants to keep her options open, it means that she values their friendship and wants to maintain that connection. However, she is not ready or willing to commit to a romantic relationship with him at this time.
This statement suggests that she is open to exploring other romantic possibilities or perhaps not ready to be in an exclusive relationship with anyone at the moment. She might be interested in getting to know other people or just enjoying her freedom without the constraints of a committed relationship.
Possible reasons for wanting to keep her options open could include:
Uncertainty: She might not be sure about her feelings for the guy or whether a romantic relationship would work out.
Prioritizing friendship: She values the friendship and doesn't want to risk damaging it by jumping into a romantic relationship too quickly.
Personal growth: She could be focusing on personal growth, self-discovery, or other priorities that take precedence over romantic involvement.
Past experiences: She may have had negative experiences in past relationships, making her cautious about jumping into something serious.
Exploration: She wants to explore different relationships to gain a better understanding of what she wants in a partner.
It's essential to respect her wishes and boundaries. If she wants to be friends, it's crucial to be a supportive and caring friend without putting pressure on her to change her mind about a romantic relationship. Remember that people's feelings can change over time, and maintaining a strong and genuine friendship could provide a solid foundation for a potential romantic relationship in the future, if both parties feel the same way. However, there are no guarantees, and it's essential to be understanding and considerate of her feelings and decisions.