(Photo by: batega)

Remember the advice column? Well, we’ve been developing it and now it’s here for all of us girls seeking a helping hand along the road! How awesome is that?! Maia’s on a roll, and she’ll be the great guide here to to help throw us a life raft when we need it the most. Booyah!

Here’s what she has to say:

Ask Maia

Your Supportive Confidante

Welcome, ladies to the new Girls By Design advice column! Don’t fret, girls—we have a new advice column! My name is Maia, and I been there, done that, and I know how to help. After dealing with multiple situations, from friend drama, health trauma, family issues –the works, I can offer you some pearls of wisdom. I will give it to you straight, offering life and relationship advice in my new column. Life is most complicated whether at school, home, or a party, so let my honest advice provide a clear perspective for you, along with some witty interjections of the experienced and loving GBD editors.

So ask away, ladies! Your questions will remain anonymous if you choose

Cassie asked this: Well, here’s what’s been going on with me. I’ve been dating my boyfriend for about 3 months, and I’m just not feeling it anymore :/ I hardly ever want to see him and as sad as it may seem, well…sometimes he repulses me? I know. It’s horrible. And I’m just kind of afraid of losing him and being alone. I mean don’t get me wrong, he’s wonderful and cuddly and sweet What do I do? How would I handle being alone? Any additional advice? I want to be a strong young woman and being with someone because I’m afraid to be alone? Not the way to do it right…

Dear Cassie,

First, there are three main things to unravel here – so let’s start unraveling and dissecting the situation!
What exactly is it about your boyfriend that is repulsing you? Do you know what it is? And if so, perhaps the reasoning behind his repulsiveness trumps his ability to have teddy bear like qualities. Is it worth it to stay in a relationship for the sake of having a relationship, a security blanket?

As for being a strong woman, Girl, you can easily be a strong woman! From the smallest to biggest actions, thoughts, and morals – so don’t let this moment of doubt deter you from your journey to becoming your own superwoman!

If you feel that you are relying on your man too much, and the thought of spending time away from him is nerve-racking, I would suggest creating more options for yourself – maybe instead of hanging out with your boyfriend every friday night, mix it up – go out on an adventure with your girlfriends, or go to a concert with a group of friends – including your boyfriend if you want to.

And lastly, if the true reason for sticking with your boyfriend is in order to avoid feeling alone, do not fret! You are your best friend. You know yourself best, enjoy your own company. Don’t be afraid of being alone, because when it comes down to it, you are who you can rely on and love yourself unconditionally. So enjoy your own presence! Do something solitary - go for a run, give yourself a spa night, or host a small get together with friends, even people you could see yourself being friends with. Get involved! Become a part of your community, finish a project, or start something you have always wanted to start. Being alone isn’t that bad, and there is always something you can do in your free time. But first, don’t doubt yourself! Get excited to embark upon your own mission for being strong and independent!

And if you feel like your boyfriend is getting in the way - maybe it’s time that he become just a friend.

*Note to GBD readers: Although each one of our responses to your questions are magnificent pearls of wisdom, the advice is not professional. We are simply sharing our loving response to help y’all sort out some sticky situations.

You need any advice? Hardships you’ve faced or are facing now? Having drama in your life? Have some quirky questions you want answered? Then send whatever is tumbling around your heart and mind to info@girlsbydesign.com or maia@girlsbydesign.com and Maia will help with your troubles. You don’t have to say who you are (but you can if you want to), all submissions will be held private, confidential and will remain anonymous! Mmmkay? We don’t bite, we promise.