CRUSHES

We know it may *seem* like everyone around you has a boyfriend or girlfriend, but trust us on this one: that's not the case. If you take off your blinders and look closely, you'll see that you are not the only one that isn’t walking hand in hand in the hall or cuddled close on the bleachers during a basketball game.

It's difficult walking around feeling green with envy, but we've all been there. And trust us—there *is* a reason you're not in a relationship right now. In fact, there are actually five.

You haven't found someone that you're into.

The key to being in a good relationship is finding a *good* person. With your pool of potential boos not reaching far beyond school, it's possible that you simply haven’t found someone you're really into yet.

You're super shy.

Put simply, some of us are just more outgoing than others. Unfortunately, that can put a damper on many aspects of our lives, including dating. If you can help it, don’t let love be one of those things. (If you're stuck for where to start, we've got some tips that will help you come out of your shell.)

You let your family members get in your head.

We know grandma said, “Ladies don’t make the first move” but it’s 2019, and we've leveled up. There's never been a better time to put on your big girl panties, push aside what your gram says and go after what you want. Just keep it simple: “Hey, do you want to go to the movies this Saturday?”

You're not looking in the right direction.

Crushing on someone who is already in a relationship is a surefire way to cement your single status. If you're OK with waiting for them to finally break up with their S/O to make your move...then go for it. But if you want to have a sweetie by Valentine's Day or an amazing date on your arm at prom, that's not the best plan of action.

You're actually just not ready.

Dating and being in a relationship are things that take time, energy and commitment. Not being ready/wanting to do that when you're a teen is perfectly normal, and waiting until you're are—whenever that may be—is completely OK. 

Do you think *you're* ready to date? Let us know in the comments below.

by Britnee Wright | 1/28/2019