Do you have a boyfriend/girlfriend?Yes
How long have you been dating?Too long (9 months)
Do you enjoy being in a relationship?Yes, I enjoy it very much so. We have nice conversations, nice nights out, etc. I won't delve into details, because you're new to it, and it won't be interesting anyhow.
Here are some basic ground rules when you're "new to the game." I recommend these rules, and, for a first relationship, they work well. Feel free to change them, but, as being older and someone who has dated since he was 11, I strongly suggest these. Once you become more experienced, you can experiment differently. Hopefully, you won't even have to become experienced, as your first relationship will last.
1. It is best to not base "liking" or "love" off a simple stare, or flirting in class. Before you get into a relationship with anyone, get to know them. Don't do this on a date. Do this during school, on aim, or on the phone. Sit with him at lunch, ask for his number and talk to him a few times. If you see things going well - wait at least a week or two - then you can he will most likely propose dating (you may too, if you wish to speed it up).
2. IMPORTANT - When you start dating, immediately establish how intamite the relationship will be, and discuss it with him. Any confusion will lead to hurt feelings, pressure, or break-ups. It is important to set a limit with him, or guaruntee me, he will push as much as he can.
3. If you want things to last, you need to keep things interesting. Don't always go to the same place, don't always talk about the same things, and make sure you're both happy. Conversation is "scientifically" the most important thing for lasting relationships. I see plenty of kids have boy/girlfriends for under two weeks, simply because it got boring immediately. If you want him there, keep it interesting.
4. MOST IMPORTANT - Men and women alike become jealous, controlling, bored, unexplainable, etc. If you see yourself getting jealous, or you see him getting jealous, make it stop. I see plenty of girls in relationships where they slowly let their boyfriends control them more and more, down to where they tell them who to hang out with, and what shirt to wear. If you see other problems develop, break it off. It is far less painful to end it right when things go downhill, right when things get boring, right when he starts hurting you in some way. It is pointless to be with someone "because you want anyone." I see plenty of girls in relationships where they slowly let their boyfriends control them more and more, down to where they tell them who to hang out with, and what shirt to wear. Remember, even if things fall apart - say he cheats on you - it's not the end of the world. You still have your family, and friends. Many people, men and women alike, forget this and get depressed and sad, and miss the people who truly love them.
ABOVE ALL ELSE
Have a good time!!Relationships are meant to be beneficial, pleasurable, and fun. Everything most likely seems scary, but, try not to sweat it. Have a good time with it, and, most likely, your (future)boyfriend will too.
