How Can I Find a Girlfriend or Boyfriend When I Grow Up?

Sometimes it seems like everywhere you look, you see couples. You might see them walking hand-in-hand down your street or even kissing in movies or TV shows. So it's common to wonder how you will get your very own girlfriend or boyfriend when you are older. How will someone decide that you are a very special person worth spending more time with?

The good news is that it usually happens pretty naturally. As you grow up, girls and boys get more and more interested in one another. In the teen years, many kids want to experience what it's like to go on dates and be part of a couple. So someday you might meet someone in school or at a party and develop an interest in them. Maybe the two of you will talk or exchange phone numbers — or even discover that you both like the exact same music groups.

Next comes the tricky part. When feelings are mutual — you both are interested in each other in the same way — things can work out pretty well. But sometimes the person you like only likes you as a friend or already has a boyfriend or girlfriend. Sigh. What can you do then? Keep hanging out with your friends and having a good time. Try not to be too focused on being part of a couple and you just might meet someone special when you least expect it!