Being friends after dating

[Lnaaa]

I went on about 6 dates with someone and while it was fun, it got a bit awkward towards the end and no-one was really pushing it forward.

He had mentioned the prospect of being friends if it didn't work out and eventually I messaged saying I didnt think things were really working but happy to be friends. He responded seemingly enthusiastically and we agreed to go for a pint at some point (his suggestion).

A week later, I messaged him accidentally but deleted so he wouldn't have been able to see the content, only that I had messaged - he responded more or less immediately asking if all was ok and that we should get that pint now the pubs were open. I suggested doing something this coming weekend and he hasn't (yet) replied - which is fine obviously but has left me thinking whether to bother meeting if he follows up this weekend? I appreciate everyone has different timelines and we are not priorities for each other but if he were to message on the weekend itself, is that not a bit late?

I think for any of my friendships, I'd check to confirm the morning of, or night before and plan to do something else for myself anyway as plan b. If they don't reply within a suitable time frame, and reply too late for me, I'd cancel and politely tell them I'd made other plans.

Is this just going to be a friendship?
You mention that it didn't work because no one was pushing it forward... Are you going to end up having a drink and a bit of a fumble?

Hmm. Murky boundaries already. He’s not responding and you’re wondering what to do. It’s only Weds.

Not sure this is as easy as being friends. Are you hoping he’ll suddenly drive this forward? A bit more time may kick start something meaningful, but do you think you’ll be happy to hear who he’s dating beyond this, like you would hear from other friends?

Maybe just breezily move on and date other people while this does its thing...be patient, see what unfolds.

Staying friends it normally just a polite term said when your not interested any longer but don't want to sound mean.
I think staying friends with an ex date could be tricky due to one of you hoping for more or could turn into a fwb situation.
What happens when one of you find someone you want to be in a relationship with, carrying on a friendship with an ex date would be awkward imo

Well it has worked for me. For various reasons it wasnt going to work out, he sent the effort in and the break up was fairly mutual (albeit initiated by me).

Being friends suits as better. That said, neither of us have started dating again since splitting and I do wonder how he will react. Supportively I hope! I think it really depends on the 2 individuals. What is your gut feeling on this?

Being friends with people you have dated can work, several of my friends made longterm friendships this way including myself. But I wouldn't force it or fret over it.

I don't really get why you'd want to stay friends with this bloke at all. You described the conversation as awkward so you don't seem to have any kind of chemistry or natural free flowing chat.

"Friendship" worth this man will only lead to disappointment and a messy hookup situation. Cut your losses before you get invested