STILL WAITING FOR DATING

Dear Jellybean,

Ok high school so far has been REALLY frustrating for me. I haven't had a real relationship yet and I'm almost about to be a junior!! The guys that are really cute are either jerks or already have girlfriends, or the guys who I like are guys I only see as friends. I don't act like your typical high school girl (i dress like a guy, act like one, etc), and I'm not about to do something stupid for a guy that would jeopardize my dignity. Is it my pride that's getting in the way? Any advice would be great!
-Frustrated Sophomore

Dear Frustrated Sophomore,

I think it's your awesomeness that's getting in the way. Yes I'm being goofy, but I'm not going to suggest you date a jerk, or somebody who has a girlfriend, so I think so far you're using great judgment. In other words, it's not you, it's them!

Don't go changing who you are, in order to get some guy. Like you say, it would only jeopardize your dignity. Pride is a plus! Besides, any guy who's really worth dating is going to like you for all the things that make you unique, not for how you can conform to some imaginary standard.

I know this advice won't speed anything up for you, but all I can tell you is, give it time. Don't stress over not having a boyfriend. Instead, throw yourself into activites you love, hang out with friends, and enjoy the benefits of being single, such as not having to manage parental issues over dating, avoiding jealousy problems, etc.

I do think you might improve your chances of meeting guys who have stuff in common with you, and might be potential boyfriends, if you got yourself involved in some co-ed activities that interest you. That could be sports, drama, computer stuff, or whatever else your school or community center has on offer. Do your best to meet as many people as possible, keep on being your fabulous self, and in time things will fall into place. Guy friends often make the best boyfriends, eventually!