Controlling Boyfriend

I know this is going to sound a little funny but I'm a 16 year old girl and I have been with a guy for nearly 16 months. We have had some ups and downs throughout the relationship, but recently I have found myself unhappy, being controlled and missing out on my teenage years, also I have started feeling some strong feelings for another guy, who also feels the same feelings for me. I'm scared to end the current relationship, even though I'm not happy. I'm so very confused and unsure what to do, I am even starting to feel self conscious about myself, and depressed. I would really appreciate some advice..please help me. Thanks heaps.
Carol

Charmaine:
Your instincts are very good about your current situation. At 16, you have every right to experiment and explore feelings, relationships and most of all, options. You've had a steady boyfriend for a long time but clearly you're now ready to move on and you're faced with a huge life-lesson which is tough for everyone. People much older than you find this one difficult and the lesson is - trusting and backing yourself. We all want to feel safe and secure but if it's at the expense of our principles, life becomes just a lie. Try to find the courage to follow your inner voice that's telling you to do what's right for you. That voice will lead you right your whole life if you let it. Even if you end up alone for a while, it won't matter as you'll be strong in yourself. Right now, it's more important to be 16 and have fun than to hang onto an unfulfilling relationship.




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