School is officially back in session, and all of a sudden, your ex is sitting next to you in chem class, that cute new kid is *totally* catching your eye and the kinda awk boy from last year had a total glow-up (and is rumored to be crushing on you). But wait—before you get swept up in all the excitement of school crushes, allow us to remind you of some of the most important rules (and maybe some life-saving tips). Ready to rock your love life this school year (without letting your grades slip a bit)? Read on, girl.
#1. “You’re the real prize– they’re lucky to have you”
Never forget this: You’re out of *their* league, not the other way around. And, lucky you, that means that you never should feel like you have to prove yourself to someone. Don’t crush on someone who makes you feel lesser or not good enough. Ever. They should heart you for who you are right now, and if they don’t? That’s their loss.
#2. “School comes first”
OK, crushes are great, but let’s be real: How many high school relationships actually last forever? We’re not saying it can’t happen (and props to you if you and your bae make it in the long run!), but what we *are* saying is that your education…is forever. So if you find your latest crush obsession getting in the way of your spot on the honor roll? Maybe it’s time to rethink the ‘ship (or at least your time management). If you’re having trouble juggling both sides of your life, focus on the one that counts in the long run.
Looking for ways to stay on top of your ‘ship *and* school? Try combining the two: Trade a night out for a study sesh date and let them quiz you on your Spanish vocab in between classes.
#3. “Smiles, not stares”
The best way to low-key say “I like you”? Be approachable. Be bubbly and fun. Ditch the nonchalant attitude and smile, smile, smile. It may feel cringey, but trust us, being genuinely joyful is the most attractive it gets. And, psst? If you’re naturally a shy girlie, take our tried-and-true advice: Fake it ‘till you make it.
#4. “Don’t dwell on the awk”
OK, so you slipped up and said something silly the other day. Or maybe you gave a weird compliment, laughed so hard you spit out your water or literally fell on your face. Whatever it is, if you’re constantly overthinking or replaying yesterday’s embarrassing mems in your mind when you’re talking to your crush, you won’t make any progress.
Our advice? Let the past be past. The best way to deal with mistakes is to laugh them off. In all likelihood, your crush probably thought your slip-up was kinda (ok, majorly) cute.
#5. “Make the most of each opportunity”
Oh no! You’re stuck in a class where you don’t know anybody. Or your BFF invited you to a party that you *know* your crush will be at, but you’re terrified—what will you wear? And what will you say?
Roll with the punches. Try your best to reframe each awk situation as an opportunity to meet new cuties to crush on, get cuter with your current crush or, if nothing else, just have fun.
That chem class with nobody you know? Instead of sitting there missing your friends, try making friends with that quiet cutie in the corner—you never know who may turn out to be the one for you. And that party with your crush? Don’t skip out because of fear. This could be *the* night. Maybe it’ll be the night where they start crushing back or (gasp!) *finally* ask you out. Take the risks, girl, and we promise: This will be your best year yet.
Looking for more crush content? We’ve got you, girl.
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Images: @agirlwithJesus, @attiana.zimmerle, @itsadrinamax
