Pressure from the people around us can be difficult to handle, most especially when we are in a relationship. This type of pressure is more pronounced in the teenage years as these adolescents are becoming more exposed to bigger things.
Teens’ emotional maturity increases during this period, however, they are also prone to be more vulnerable, and they seek closer relationships with their peers. Timothy LaGro, M.A. LMHC says “There are many areas of concern which have increased peer pressure and pressure in general on pre-teens and teens alike.”
When in a relationship, peer pressure cannot be necessarily avoided. It can lead to stress, depression and anxiety. According to Jennifer Walton, MA, LPC, LCPC says “The data on anxiety among 18- and 19-year-olds is even more concerning.” However, here are five tips to stop peer pressure from getting in your relationship’s way:
- Learn To Say “No”
One important lesson you need to take to heart is that saying “no” is okay. Sometimes, there are situations you and your partner face which is not entirely comfortable for the both of you.
Say “no,” and be firm with it. Simply because other people do it doesn’t mean you have to do it, too. When you know it is not right, and you are not comfortable with it, stand firmly by your principles, say “no,” walk away, and save yourselves the regrets.
- Talk With Your Parents
It may be uncomfortable, and you and your loved one may prefer to consult your circle of friends. However, the saying “Parents know best” does not exist for nothing. In times of difficulty and confusion, it never hurts to speak with your parents. According to Mark J. Johnson, PsyD says ” There are plenty of people who care about you and are willing to help.”
Your parent’s advice will not just enlighten you and your partner, but the both of you will also increase and strengthen emotional bond with your respective parents and decrease the gap between your familial relationships.
- Don’t Make Hasty Decisions
Don’t immediately jump into decisions without considering the full impact of these choices on you and your partner’s lives. Sure, it’s nice to live by the saying “you only live once,” but the fact that you only have one life connotes that you and your partner need to be very careful in your decisions to avoid negative consequences in the future.
When faced with a difficult or complicated decision-making situation, relax, take a deep breath, think about it thoroughly, and take as much time you need or maximize the time you have.
- Take Mistakes As Lessons
As much as we like to live without mistakes, these wrongdoings cannot be avoided entirely or erased in our lives. You and your partner may have committed mistakes in the past and may incur some more in the future, but don’t take these mistakes as things that drag you down.
Keep in mind that in the end, it is ultimately your choice whether you will forgive and absolve these misdemeanors. It is entirely up to you how you will be affected by these misdeeds–whether you will let them get to you and drag you down, or you will use these as tools to rise.
- Be With Positive People
One key to stopping peer pressure from affecting your relationship is to surround yourself with positive people–with people who are genuinely happy for your achievements, who wants you to grow holistically, and who truthfully cares for you as much as you care for them.
Do not be with people because they are cool, trendy, and popular. Be with the people who will not limit you, instead be with friends who will help you and your partner surpass your limits and achieve holistic growth in your personal lives and your relationship.
