Girlfriends

In teen relationships, to have a girlfriend doesn’t have to mean you are in love. Youth brings constant change and evolution, with every relationship a learning experience. Often girlfriends will mean different things at different times and events. The important factor is to be certain both the boy and the girl understand the terms.

Looking for a Girlfriend

Okay, you are a teen boy and you would like a relationship. Should be a simple thing, right? It depends on why exactly you are looking. Some guys either want (or don’t want) a girlfriend because of their friends. When all the guys are taking their girls to the party on Friday, you don’t want to hang with them and fly solo. But, get serious; is that a good reason to look for a relationship?

Without a girl, a guy doesn’t have to be lonely. Instead, he should embrace his independence. Use your time as a single wisely. Engage in some activities and really get to know yourself. Start to really look at the girls around you. Which ones do you enjoy being with the most? Which girls are your friends already? Start with basic friendships and learn to relate to females this way. Sometimes romance will develop and you will have a nice foundation to work on. But, don’t be disappointed if it doesn’t, some relationships are best left at friends.

When looking for a girlfriend, don’t let appearances completely control your emotions. Look deeper into what you really need in a relationship. Beauty only really matters at first. Have you ever noticed how the people you meet actually start to look different after you have known them awhile? A girl’s personality and inner strength is going to outlive any exterior splendor. Make sure you are really looking for what you want, avoid the dream girl complex.

Being a Girlfriend

So, now you are officially a girlfriend. What exactly does that mean and how should you act? In a healthy relationship, you shouldn’t have to work to hard to be a certain person. Although, there are some basic guidelines for being a good partner you should keep in mind, based in the roots of strong relationships.

Trust

As a girlfriend you have to trust your guy. If you don’t, you shouldn’t be his girl. This means letting him have a guy’s night out and talk to other girls at school. Jealousy is an evil demon, don’t let it take control.

Romance

The main difference between friend and girlfriend is the romance factor. This absolutely does not mean sex. To be a girlfriend, you don’t have to be sexual with your boyfriend. The goal is to be a special friend. Add a little romance to your relationship with thoughtful expressions, hand holding, love notes, and extra consideration for your partner’s feelings.

Friendship

Being a girlfriend is also being a friend. Get to know your guy. Really talk to him about his goals and interests. Watch him as he plays ball, guitar, or whatever his passion.

Communication

Relationships have layers. Talking is important to work through these. Let your relationship unfold naturally by keeping the communication open and comfortable. Don’t open up too fast, but be sure to share your feelings and concerns with your boyfriend.

Honesty

While you certainly don’t have to share every private thought, it is important to be upfront with your boyfriend. It also means being honest to your relationship. Cheating is not an honest act. If you are ready to end it with your boyfriend, tell him. Don’t just start working on the next guy.

Respect

Ideally, if you do all of the above, respect will naturally work its way in. Treat your boyfriend how you want to be treated and this will show your respect. Speaking politely, showing concern, taking care of each other are all excellent signs of respect.