Fries Before Guys… And Other Boy Myths To Break

Forget everything you’ve heard: the dated dating advice has *got* to go. We’re rewriting the rules to your much more modern love story.

- Kelsey Haywood Lucas

So you’re dating someone—like for real—for the very first time. Yay! It’s a sweet and exciting experience (bring on those butterflies), but it also can be confusing. Suddenly, it seems like everyone (your mother, your BFFs, the list goes on) is suddenly there to fill your head with well-meaning (but conflicting!) advice. We’ve all heard these “rules,” but we’re not buying them anymore. Here’s how to put your own twist on these OG tropes.

WHAT YOUR BEST GUY FRIEND SAYS:

“DON’T BE AFFECTIONATE AROUND HIS FRIENDS”

WHY IT’S A THING: Whether it’s his crew or your parents or strangers on the street, some people just don’t like seeing public displays of affection. Period. But the anti-PDA attitude can be especially strong among a group of guys because, chances are, they haven’t all had girlfriends yet and they’re not all mature enough to appreciate the good thing you and your guy have going. Instead, the boys can get a little uncomfortable (and even fully creeped out) when their bud is seen cuddling up—which makes your BF uncomfortable, too.

REWRITE YOUR RULES: Just keep in mind that your relationship is personal and private—and conspicuously smooching in front of everyone won’t make it any stronger. But it’s up to you and your BF to figure out what makes you happy—whether that’s holding hands between classes or sharing a quick kiss at your lockers after school. Real friends will respect the romance…as long as you stop staring into each other’s eyes long enough to let the rest of the crew know you care about them, too. WHAT YOUR MOM SAYS:

“DON’T COME ON TOO STRONG.”