5 Tips For Practicing Abstinence

If you’re currently struggling with will power, these 5 tips for practicing abstinence may help. In modern culture, practicing abstinence can be especially tough. Everywhere you look, it seems like sex is right there. From advertising to entertainment and even social norms, there is a constant bombardment with sexual images, ideas, and dialogue. But, with help from the following tips, you can keep your personal goal of abstinence in focus and attainable.

1. If you’re young, don’t succumb to social pressure. One of the biggest reasons that teens choose not to stay abstinent is because they feel that everyone else is having sex. And while your buddies may talk a big game, odds are that they haven’t done it yet, either. In 2005, for instance, less than half of all teens reported that they had had sex before. Practicing abstinence, believe it or not, actually puts you in pretty solid company.
2. Date people who share your views. Contrary to what you might think, people who practice abstinence can still have a good time with the opposite gender. That good time just happens not to include sex. But if you’ve got a significant other who feels ready for sex, you are much more likely to forgo abstinence yourself. Make your life easier, and avoid dating people who want to be sexually active.
3. When you go out, always bring friends. In general, alcohol and practicing abstinence aren’t necessarily the best mix. But everyone is entitled to a good time once in awhile. To curb the chances that you might have a few too many drinks and slip up, bring friends to make sure you stick to your plan of abstinence. You’ll be able to relax more and have a better time knowing that people who have your back are around.
4. Don’t fall for the “sex is amazing” myth. This is not to say that sex can’t be a visceral experience. But as people who practice abstinence likely already know, it has to be with the right person to truly become a good experience. The idea of sex comes with a certain amount of hype, so to speak. Just remember that it’s usually pretty overblown.
5. When you think you’re ready, come to the decision mentally first. Your body might be telling you that it’s time to end your abstinence, but you have to remember that procreation is its job. Ending your abstinence should come with careful consideration. Talk to your significant other, a mentor, or a friend before making the decision. You will be glad you did, and much more comfortable with your decision.