It's essential to respect a person's boundaries and their stated desire not to pursue anything serious at the moment. Pressuring someone into a relationship or trying to manipulate their feelings is not healthy and can lead to negative outcomes.
That said, there are some things you can do to build a genuine connection and potentially increase the likelihood of the person becoming interested in a more serious relationship in the future:
Give him space: If he says he's not ready for anything serious, respect that decision and give him the space he needs. Pushing him to change his mind will likely have the opposite effect.
Be supportive and understanding: Show empathy and be supportive of his feelings and needs. Listen actively to what he says and demonstrate that you genuinely care about his well-being.
Build a strong friendship: Focus on building a strong foundation of friendship. Getting to know each other better without the pressure of a romantic relationship can be beneficial.
Be your authentic self: Be genuine and authentic when you interact with him. Show him the real you and let your personality shine through.
Share common interests: Find shared hobbies or activities you both enjoy and engage in them together. This can create a stronger bond and make spending time together more enjoyable.
Maintain healthy boundaries: While you can be supportive, make sure you set and maintain your own boundaries. It's important not to invest too much emotionally if he's not looking for anything serious.
Be patient: Respect that everyone's emotional readiness and timeline are different. Give him the time he needs to figure out what he wants.
Focus on self-improvement: Take this time to focus on your own personal growth and happiness. Confidence and self-assurance can be attractive qualities.
Keep an open mind: While you may hope for a more serious relationship in the future, be open to the possibility that things may or may not progress in that direction.
Remember that you cannot force someone to want a serious relationship if they are not ready for it. If, after some time, it becomes apparent that your goals and desires are not aligned, it might be best to reevaluate the relationship and consider what is best for both of you. Communication is key throughout this process, so make sure to have open and honest conversations about your feelings and expectations.