For example, if you’re into a certain type of music that isn’t popular among other people your age, listen to it anyway and be proud that you have such a unique taste for music!
For example, if you know their favorite band, surprise them with a cool t-shirt! As another example, plant a little treat or sweet note in their locker at school.
However, don’t pretend to be into something just because they’re into it. Be honest and say something like, “I can’t really get into graphic novels but I love how passionate you are about the stories and the art. ” Be a good listener whenever they share something with you. A lot of people don’t take the time to listen, so it’s really nice when someone does. [4] X Research source
Remember, there’s a difference between being supportive and being pushy. Give them suggestions, advice, and moral support, but let them follow their own ideas too!
Keep your compliments genuine and original. “You have great style” “You’re really eloquent when you talk” and “You have some great ideas” are all great compliments. Don’t overdo it! Giving anyone too many compliments can come off as fake or desperate.
Make sure they’re comfortable with physical closeness by asking first. For example, you might say, “Do you want to hold hands?” or “Can I kiss you?” If the person you’re dating is already a touchy-feely person, feel free to go in for a surprise kiss if you want to! If you’re not comfortable with touching or kissing but they are, let them know that you’re not there yet. If they’re a good partner, they’ll understand.
For example, style your hair and wear a flattering outfit. If they got you a shirt, accessories, or any other wearable gift, wear it around them to show your appreciation. Don’t go overboard and keep your style appropriate for the occasion. For example, don’t wear a fancy dress and heels if the two of you are casually hanging out for a movie on the couch.
For instance, if they’re going to hang out with their group of friends and doesn’t directly invite you, don’t try to tag along. Tell them to have a great time and go hang out with your own friends.
You might ask, “My parents said they’re excited to meet you! Do you want to come over for dinner on Thursday?” Don’t force them to introduce you to their parents. Let them meet yours first and maybe they’ll reciprocate by inviting you over to meet theirs.
For example, you might ask, “Do you think we should plan to go on a date every weekend?” or “How often do you think we should talk on the phone?”
For instance, if you’re feeling upset about something at home, you might say something like, “I feel kind of depressed because my parents have been really mad at each other all week. Do your parents fight a lot?” Don’t say things you don’t mean (like “I love you”) just because you think it’s what a girlfriend should do. Be honest about your feelings! Don’t think you have to share all of your deepest darkest secrets with them. If you really trust them, share away! But if you have any doubts, keep it to yourself.
If you plan to talk in person, send them a text saying, “Can you meet me at the bell tower after school to talk?” or “We need to talk about something. Can I call you later tonight?”
If your partner is mean to you on a regular basis, avoid being mean back and say something like, “If you don’t stop saying those things to me, I’m not going to be your girlfriend or your friend anymore. ”
Even if they cheated on you (or threatened to), it’s not okay to cheat on them! If you can’t talk through your issues, it might be time to break up.
If they invite you to hang out with them and their friends and you’re not sure whether you like them or not, give them a chance. Try to find something you have in common and go from there. If anyone they are close to (from their grandmother to another friend) is mean to you, feel free to share that with them. They might be able to talk to that person, or they might realize that someone they thought was a friend is not so nice.
If the person you’re dating is pressuring you to have sex or take drugs, you should tell them honestly if you don’t want to (if you’re not ready or that’s not something you’re into). A good partner will understand and respect your decisions.
