Hello Parker Press readers! Welcome back to Parker Press' advice column: Ask a Friend. We have created this advice column with the intention to foster a designated safe space for peers to be open about things they might be struggling with or have questions about and give each another guidance. The floor is always open to anyone who is seeking advice! Every posting, Parker Press staff respond to questions they receive under their personal pen names.
HOW TO SUBMIT
Anyone can submit questions via this form or dm us directly. There is also a red heart-shaped box in the upper hall between the two chairs in front of the mural where you can submit questions on paper. You can sign your questions with your actual name, your initials, or a pen name---it's completely up to you
Disclaimer: Advice from Parker Press is given by students on the Parker Press staff and is by no means a professional opinion. While every contributor has the best intentions, please take any advice given with a grain of salt, as every situation is very unique to each individual. Please keep questions school appropriate. Parker Press is by no means obligated to respond to questions that fall outside of these perimeters or are a violation someone's privacy. We hope you enjoy!
Note: If we don't get to your question this posting, stay tuned for the next one, as it may take us a lil while to get to all the submissions we receive!
Q: How do I get over my fear of women?
- Afraid of Women
A: Dear Afraid of Women---
Stop being afraid of women. Women don't bite. If you are scared of talking to women, there is a simple solution. Go talk to women. They will most likely talk back to you if you are nice. Ask them how their day is going, or what they have planned for the weekend. If you are too scared to do that now, you can practice by talking to the mirror, or one of your male friends dressed as a woman. Remember, women are nothing to be afraid of!
From,
A. Woman.
Q: How do you know when to reject a guy?
- Nadia
A: Rejecting someone can be tough when you're not sure whether or not you should give the guy a chance. How do you know when it's time to say no? Here are a few signs to look out for.
First of all, do you feel excited and energized, or drained and exhausted? If you find yourself constantly making excuses to avoid seeing him, or you're just not feeling the spark, it might be a sign that he's not the right fit for you.
Another thing to consider is your compatibility. Do you share similar values and interests? Are your goals and priorities aligned?
Finally, pay attention to how he treats you. Does he respect your boundaries and make you feel valued and appreciated? Or does he belittle you, dismiss your feelings, or pressure you into doing things you're not comfortable with?
Remember, rejecting someone is never easy, but sometimes it's the best thing for both of you. Trust your gut, be honest, and remember that you deserve someone who makes you happy.
Hope this helps,
Hallway Helper
Q: How do you make a friend?
- Anonymous
A: Friends are often important people in our lives. Someone there to make you laugh and help you through hard times. But making new friends can be difficult. If you are unsure how to make a new friend here are some steps that could help you on this adventure.
First, find opportunities to meet possible friends. From joining clubs to volunteering, there are endless ways you can meet new people. Another way to make a friend could be connecting with people you already know. Chances are there is someone that you can make a deeper connection with. This person could be a mutual friend, a classmate or a co-worker.
Once you know who you want to be friends with, it important to make the first move. It can be hard to make a friend if you don’t start the conversation first. Some good conversation starters could be a compliment about them, a greeting, or a comment about the situation or environment you are in. For example, if they are wearing a hat you like you can compliment them about that. Make sure when talking to them you are showing interest in what they say. No one wants to make a friend with a person who doesn’t seem to care. You can show interest by smiling and actively listening (nodding and maintaining eye contact). If they seem to be interested in continuing the conversation you can tell them a little bit about yourself and ask questions about them.
At the end of the conversation don’t forget to introduce yourself, eg. “Oh by the way my name is John.” Typically they will also introduce themselves but if they forget you can always ask. Remembering their name is another way to show you were listening and your interest. If the conversation went really well you can ask them for their number or social media to stay in touch with them.
W RIZZ YOU JUST GOT THEIR NUMBER!!
- Liz