My crush said he wants to be friends for the time being and I told him I’m going to stop forcing everything so things can come naturally, and he said “Now you’re learning.” Will he like me if I stop forcing it? What else can I do? I really like him

If he wants to be friends for the time being then you should let that be as is, there is no need to rush anything because you have both got more to learn about each other. I wouldn’t force anything or think to because decisions within the relationship or anything that happens should be mutual and taken at both of your own paces so you haven’t got to feel obligated to do anything.

If you like him and he likes you, take it slow and be open, and remain honest with him throughout the course of time you speak with him for the best outcome for yourself.