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High school can be a confusing time with relationships, friendships and school in general. I sent out a Google Form to the Louisville students that needed advice on these important topics and answered their questions in the article below! These are universal questions, so if you’re struggling with one of these topics, I hope these help you.
Friendships
“How do you know a friendship is genuine?”
Friendship is one of the most beautiful things the world has to offer, but finding your people can be super difficult. If you feel like you can be the most authentic version of yourself with your friend and being around them recharges your batteries, rather than making you feel like you’re not good enough or that you said the wrong thing, then it is probably genuine.
Making new friends can be hard because you want to impress them, but if your current friends are not including you in things or making an effort to talk to you, try to branch out and find people who will reciprocate your energy.
“Have you ever realized that you would not be friends with your long-term friend in your present life?”
When you’re friends with someone, you want it to last forever, but people grow apart and change. As a result, the relationship is not always destined to last a lifetime. However, that does not mean it was a waste of time or energy.
While the people in your life were meant to be there, that does not always mean they are meant to stay, even if you knew them for as long as fifteen years or only five minutes.
I know it can be hard to grow apart from someone who once shared all of life’s greatest moments with you, but just know that both of you are different from the people you once were. Growing apart from someone is totally okay because it makes room for the next important people and stages in your life; we are all a collection of all the people we’ve loved.
Relationships
“What age is the best age to get into a relationship based on maturity?”
It honestly depends. People mature at different paces, but as long as you are listening to your heart and communicating with your significant other, there is no age requirement.
However, remember to navigate the relationship at your own speed rather than rushing into anything just because your friends are doing it or you feel like you might have to “catch up.” Things will happen gradually and as they are supposed to if you open your heart to possibilities.
“How do you get out of a toxic relationship?”
It can be easy to fall into a relationship that turns out to be deceiving or toxic, but leaving behind a toxic relationship, whether that’s romantic or even platonic, is always better for everyone involved.
Doing the best thing for your mental and physical health is always the priority, so communicating to them by breaking things off, maybe starting by owning your personal short-comings in the relationship, and putting space between the two of you might be exactly what you need.
To leave the relationship, confide in people close to you about the hardships you are dealing with so that you are surrounded by support, and–even though it won’t be easy–cut off contact with the toxic person.
“How do you know you are ready for a relationship?”
There’s no right or wrong answer to knowing when you’re ready for a relationship, but just know that relationships require a lot of time, energy and effort, and if you’re ready to put your all into a person, then chances are you might be ready.
However, don’t coerce yourself into feeling ready just because you feel like you should. There will be plenty of time to get into a relationship, so don’t feel like you need to find the right person, right now.
School
“When should you start thinking about what to major in?”
It’s never too early to keep an open mind, whether that’s trying out new classes right here at Louisville or researching potential careers. But just because you’re starting to consider possible majors does not mean you have to set your mind on anything right away.
Many people go into college undecided and without a clear vision of what exactly they want to do, but that doesn't mean they won’t end up discovering their passion. Even if you declare a major at the start, if you really want to change it later, that is actually possible. Growing up involves a lot of changes, including decisions, so nothing is set in stone. Just focus on what brings you the most joy and happiness and try and see if you can fit that into your future major/career.
“What if you're stuck in a class with people you don't really like?”
Spending time with people you don’t like can be hard, but try and remain impartial. Maybe you had a bad first impression of someone, but that doesn’t mean you won’t grow to like them in the future. If you still end up having a hard time being around them–especially if they aren’t being nice–then there is nothing wrong with keeping distance and just focusing on learning.
“How do I get motivation when doing something I don't enjoy?”
Doing something you don’t enjoy is never fun, especially if it’s a mandatory class, but try and start with one part at a time. Like for example, if you’re making something, try and start with the easiest–or hardest–part (whichever you prefer) and go from there.
Looking at a big project, especially if it’s something you feel no joy or interest in doing, can be excruciating, but try and put yourself in a place with no distractions in order to accomplish it. On the other hand, if it’s something like a sport, don’t force yourself to waste your time and spirit into something that eats away at your happiness.
I hope this article helped answer a burning question on your mind or gave you insight on high school! Also, if I didn’t get to answer your question, you can always ask a trusted friend, teacher or myself if you feel comfortable.