Text him you want to stop talking and start dating

The talking phase means you're convenient but not a priority. He likes the attention and the flirtation. He may actually like you. But he hasn't made a choice to commit to pursuing something real with you. That's the only thing that matters here.

Sometimes he's waiting to see if someone else comes along. Sometimes he's just enjoying the interaction without thinking about what comes next. Sometimes he's scared. None of those are your problem to solve. You don't need to diagnose why he's stuck. You just need to know that stuck is what he's chosen by not moving forward.

Say the words directly: "I want to date you" or "I'm looking for something real, not just talking to someone." Avoid questions that let him off easy like "do you see this going somewhere?" He can nod along to that without changing anything.

Your message should have two parts. First, acknowledge the talking phase is happening. Second, state what you want. Keep it under three sentences. The tone matters. You're not accusing him of wasting your time. You're saying what you need. That's not aggressive. That's honest.

Send the text during a normal hour. Not 11pm. Not right after he ignores your last message. Then wait at least three days before you expect anything. He'll either respond quickly because he knows what he wants, or he'll go silent because he doesn't. Both are answers.

If he responds with questions or evasion instead of a yes or no, that's him answering too. Don't keep texting. Don't clarify. You've said what you need to say. If he ghosts or strings you along after this, stop initiating. You've given him the information. Moving on is what comes next.