CRUSHES

Knowing if you're ready for your first relationship is a *big* deal. Luckily, there are some things that make it super clear if it's full steam ahead, or if you should wait a little longer before starting to date. 

1. You've met someone who's like, amazing

There's someone you've met who's really just all-around perfect. Not just looks, though—you appreciate their personality just as much. 

2. They meet all your "requirements," but honestly, you don't really have those anymore

While you know your relationship dealbreakers, you also know the importance of being accepting of *all* a person's individual qualities.

3. You don't feel pressure to date someone just for the sake of being in a relationship

Even if your friends are dating, you don't feel the need to date to be like them. You're wanting to get into a relationship for the person, not just to "fit in". 

4. You're able to handle stressful situations

Plot twist: Dating can be stressful. And you have to be able to handle that stress to have a healthy relationship. If you're able to handle stress from school, friends and family, you likely have the ability to handle relationship stress, too.

5. You know what makes you happy and what makes you *you*

One key sign that you're ready for a relationship is actually the relationship you have with yourself. Knowing what makes you happy, what makes you sad and what you like and don't like are all signs that you're ready to date for the first time. 

But in the end, the *only* person who knows if you're ready to date is yourself. If you feel ready, take that as your cue!

More crush advice right this way...
💖 5 ways to get your crush's attention (inspired by our fave TV moments) 
💖 The 5 pieces of advice every girl with a crush needs to hear rn 
💖 11 random (but cute) convo starters to text your crush 

Slider: @niasioux
Top image: @shayrudolph
All GIFs via GIPHY

by Serena Sherwood | 2/25/2024