LIFE

 

It's Friday night and your gals invite you out for the time of your life. For the first time ever, you and your friends are going to an infamous high school party. You piece together the perfect outfit, spend hours on your makeup and throw your hair into a perfectly-tousled bun. As you step into the party, you see some things you didn't expect. Unfortunately, you seem to be the only one uncomfortable with the situation. What was supposed to be the perfect night has turned into a disaster. You're on the other side of town, and you have no idea how you got yourself into this mess. Calling your parents may be the last thing on your mind, but it's a smart way to avoid a sticky situation.

Don't be afraid.
You may get into trouble, but not as much as you would had you stayed in a bad situation. Your parents will be glad to see you made the right decision, and they'll make sure you're safe. It may be scary asking your parents for help (especially if they don't know where you are) but it's the only way to prevent the situation from escalating. As embarrassing as it feels at the time, having your parents bail you out is a decision you won't regret.

Trust them.
If you're too afraid to call on your parents for help, contact an older sibling or a trusted adult. No one should have to face a scary situation on their own, and your loved ones will be eager to help you in your time of need. While getting grounded isn't the best way to spend your weekend, it's preferable to getting in trouble with the law, or worse. Don't worry about what your friends think. True friends will stick by your side and respect your choices, and they'll never pressure you to do something you're not comfortable with.

Stay true to yourself.
This goes for less serious situations, too. Calling your parents when you're in any situation that makes you uncomfortable is a smart choice, whether you're at a sleepover and get asked to sneak out or you're at the mall and your bestie slips an eyeliner into her purse. Life gives you many opportunities to gain your parents trust, so don't take them for granted. Getting out of a sticky situation isn't tattling, it's the wise thing to do.

Voice your concerns.
Let your friends know you're uncomfortable, and tell them if you're thinking of heading home. Ask them to stop the dangerous behavior and save the night. Don't compromise your values to be accepted, but don't be afraid to suggest safe alternatives. Another tip: be honest with your friends about where you draw the line. If they know what you stand for, they won't ask you to tag along to do things you're not okay with.

Have you ever been afraid to call on your parents for help? Share your thoughts on this topic with us in the comments! 

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Photo credit: OK Chicas.

by Julia Bonney | 4/16/2017