Hannah, National Advisory Committee Member.

Crazy in Love—Sort of

By Hannah, National Advisory Committee Member

Boyfriends, crushes, infatuation. What's the real deal with keeping a relationship strong? That's what girls always ask me. I guess they think that having a boyfriend for over a year somehow makes me an automatic expert. Who knew?

Well, I guess there is something to be said for putting up with the same guy for an extended amount of time. Let's face it, you've got to be able to cope with the same stupid jokes he always seems to crack at the wrong moment, the annoying lack of sensitivity, and of course his equally wacky friends.

Wow! Now that I think about it, who needs men? They seem disgusting, perverted, clueless, and pretty much just a waste of time, right? Wrong! Although this article sounds very discouraging, here's where my inspirational note comes in.

Although guys can be all of those things that were mentioned before, there are some guys who exhibit a certain je ne sais quoi. And it's these hard to describe things that help explain my maintaining a long-term relationship. So I am going to break them down for you. Maybe you can find some insight that explains how to make a long-term relationship—heck—any relationship work.

Four Reasons My Guy is Still My Guy

1. He's HILARIOUS!
   My boyfriend could make me laugh forever. I think it is always easier to carry on a relationship when humor and wit are involved, especially at the high school age. Relationships should be all about the fun when you're young…nothing too serious. Life is already too stressful! With college planning, family, friends, and all that school work, no one needs more drama, no matter how cute the guy might be. Keep it light.



2. He's understanding.
   I know, I know, hard to believe. But it's true. It is very important to find a guy who will listen. Because—again with the stress talk—you are going to need all the support you can get, and if you can get it in a guy, why not? He's one more person you can vent to, and in this world, you can never have too many. Trust me.



3. He's willing to compromise.
   You're guy has got to be willing to negotiate. If not, then you're looking at a long journey down a road of dates that will most likely consist of watching the James Bond marathon on TV and ordering take-out from the local pizza place. A girl needs her chick flicks and sappy romantic comedies and guys should understand that. You should both be flexible. It's easier to take challenges if both of you can work together and not be so stiff and unyielding! Although, ladies, never compromise what you want out of a relationship. You should never feel pressured to negotiate your feelings, wants, or needs.



4. He always lets me know that he loves me.
   It sounds cheesy, but it is a necessity. Relationships of any kind are always formed through the universal need for love, compassion, and respect. I'm not saying that he has to flat out say the words "I love you," but that doesn't mean he can't show that he cares about you. You can feel and know that someone loves you without him even saying anything. So, as you start a relationship, and you start to bond with this other person, make sure that you both let each other know that he/she is special to you. Love is something that can be shared endlessly at no cost, so why not give it more?

In conclusion, relationships can be anything you make them. They can be fun, serious, ridiculous or amazing. Take your pick, and have fun!