Dating someone new can be the most exhilaratingly sweet rush ever! You get an exclusive
opportunity to get attention from, and give attention to, your crush you've been
thinking about so much.
In the beginning, it’s all new and everything seems great. You fantasize about being
your fierce, darling, witty, super-fun self — always saying the right thing at the
right time and looking fabulous while doing it. And, the two of you get to spend
time together. The first-date fantasy is sooo working for you.
But then, the questions start rushing in: How do my parents feel about me dating?
What are my feelings for him? Where are we going to go? What am I going to wear?
And...is it even a date?
Clearly, there's a lot to handle.
So, we went to the BeingGirl Experts for a few pointers and pulled together some
dating advice, perfect for teens.
Talk to Your Parents About Dating
Remember you need the approval of your parents to start dating. Yes, dating has
changed since mom and dad were your age, but talking to your parents about dating
is important.
Being open will strengthen your relationship with your parents and help you understand
more about your feelings and dating as they ask questions and discuss their opinions.
Set Boundaries
Setting boundaries is key to a healthy relationship. Don’t let anyone talk you into
participating in activities you aren’t ready for. If anyone is pressuring you to
do something you don’t want to do, get yourself out of the situation, and end this
relationship. Respecting one another’s boundaries is a non-negotiable when it comes
to dating.
Don’t Make Having a Boyfriend Too Important.
More than likely you are not going to meet the guy you will spend the rest of your
life with during middle school or high school. So don’t lose those friendships you
have spent so long to build by canceling plans and only hanging out with your boyfriend.
But then there’s also this dreaded situation: You and your BFF have a crush on the
same guy. If that’s the case, the Being Girl Experts have a recommendation, too:
Don’t abandon your friend for a guy you won’t date for very long. The relationship
could end. And you could find yourself heartbroken with one less girlfriend.
If you do end up getting into a relationship with a guy, the BeingGirl Experts have
some suggestions:
When it comes to a relationship, take everything into account. Being infatuated
with a guy could make you miss some red flags: his lack of commitment to exclusivity
if you both agreed to it, keeping you a secret from his friends, consistently rescheduling
dates, etc. It’s important to take a step back every now and then to make sure the
relationship is healthy from an outsider’s point of view, too!
Our Experts also recommend stopping by a bookstore to find a book on dating you
believe is right for you. There are many choices available so it is important you
select a book you will be engaged in and want to learn from.
Dating should be fun and you should treat one another with respect. If respect isn’t
there, you aren’t dating the right guy.