Confused about Relationships and Bullying

relationships for the sake of a relationship are a tricky thing. they can be fun which makes it worth it for some people, but know your intentions going into it. it can also be nice to just casually go on dates with no expectation of too much more coming out of it— unless both people end up deciding they want more. i'm pretty young and haven't had any lasting relationships but i personally prefer that to teenage drama or getting into something i didn't have the life experience for. it can be really nice to just go somewhere with a friend or even just someone nice that you want to get to know a little better. the "typical" progression of a relationship from liking each other to going on dates to making it a committed relationship is honestly not the way things have to go at all. i'm not sure if you're in high school or something, but any event in your community like a school dance can be a nice way to enjoy time with someone without too much pressure. the holidays are coming up, maybe you could ask someone to go with you to just walk around and see the lights? maybe ice skating if you're able (it's a good excuse to hold hands). basically you don't need to be too stressed about missing out on anything because a lot more adults than you think haven't had all that much experience yet, but you can find something casual to do without too much pressure. sending love, good luck on your journey! :)

Flamingo, pretty much nailed my thoughts as well. I didn’t start getting into actual relationships till i was 17! Love has no time!! 💕

I did not date anyone until almost my senior year in high school. Most people at least have one partner before then, but not me. I had two guys who were interested in me - one just wanted to get in my pants and the other couldn't commit. There were times that I felt like something was wrong with me because everyone I knew had a dating history and I really didn't. But honestly, I'm glad I didn't have any experience until later. I got to know myself better and was better able to handle a relationship when I got into one. Even those two guys who caused me so much pain and heartache were good because it helped me gain more confidence and learn how to set boundaries. A normal teenage experience is more about drama than romance, anyway. All those people I knew with a dating history also had a history of breaking up over the smallest of things after not dating for long. Meanwhile, I'm over here still with my first real boyfriend after almost four years. All because I spent more time learning about myself and what kind of relationship I would want rather than trying to work the teenage dating pool. Coming from a romantic at heart, focus on yourself. Romance is inferior to self-love and self-expression and going out and doing what means something to you. If you want romance, you can find it along the way.