Added confusing factor: I'm asexual, which to clarify doesn't mean I'm not interested in dating and relationships, but I can't use things like interest in any sort of physical intimacy to tell the difference between a romantic crush and a really strong FP. 

How would you tell? Does it matter? Is there really a difference? 

That said, how do I lower the intensity of how I feel about my FP so I can still have my own independent life without ignoring him completely? (He's my best friend, so it'd be really sad for both of us if we just didn't talk anymore.) 