When a guy tells you that he's not ready for a serious relationship but still wants to hang out with you and talk about everything except relationships, it typically means that he enjoys your company and values your friendship but is not looking for a romantic commitment at this time. There could be several reasons behind his statement:
Emotional unavailability: He might have personal reasons, such as past experiences or emotional baggage, that make him hesitant to fully invest in a serious relationship.
Priorities and focus: He could be going through a phase in life where he prioritizes other aspects, such as career, personal growth, or other commitments, over romantic involvement.
Fear of commitment: Some people might have a fear of commitment and find it difficult to open up emotionally in a romantic relationship.
Not the right timing: He might genuinely believe that it's not the right time for him to be in a serious relationship and wants to be honest about it.
Enjoying companionship: He may genuinely enjoy spending time with you, talking, and hanging out, but he is not interested in taking the relationship to a romantic level.
It's essential to take his words at face value and respect his feelings and boundaries. If he says he's not ready for a serious relationship, pushing him or trying to change his mind is unlikely to be successful and may create tension in your friendship.
However, it's also important to consider your own feelings and needs. If you have romantic feelings for him and desire a serious relationship, it's crucial to be honest with yourself about whether you can continue the friendship without compromising your own emotional well-being. If you find it challenging to maintain a platonic relationship with him, it may be best to take some distance and focus on your own happiness and growth.
Ultimately, communication is key. If you have any doubts or questions about where you stand in the relationship, it's best to talk openly with him about your feelings and concerns. Be prepared for any outcome and respect his decision while making choices that are right for you.