Friendships are changing
As you grow, friends often become more important. You may want to spend more time with them and care more about what they think.
Friendships also change. You may drift from old friends and make new ones. This is normal, even if it hurts sometimes.
What a good friend looks like
A good friend listens, is kind, keeps your private things private, and respects your choices.
A friend who often puts you down, leaves you out on purpose, pressures you or shares your secrets may not be good for you.
You deserve friends who make you feel good about yourself.
Peer pressure
Peer pressure is when people your age push you to do something. It can be positive, like encouraging you to join a sports team, or negative, like daring you to bunk class, tease someone, or try tobacco or alcohol.
It can be loud, like a dare, or quiet, like feeling you must have the same phone or clothes as everyone else.
How to say no
Say no clearly and simply: No thanks, that is not for me. You do not need a long reason.
Use an excuse if it helps: My parents will check, or I have tuition. Suggest something else to do, or walk away.
Stick with friends who share your values. Real friends will respect your no.