How to Choose Abstinence

Sexual abstinence is the only foolproof way to avoid unwanted pregnancy, sexually transmitted diseases, emotional baggage and a host of other issues that arise from premarital sex. Many people don't choose abstinence because they feel that a sexually active lifestyle is best for them. If you would like to commit to abstinence, it is important to develop a game plan.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. Examine your religious beliefs. Many people choose abstinence because premarital sex is against their chosen religion. This is a powerful motivator that can help solidify your desire to wait for sex and it can provide you with plenty of reasons to maintain your willpower.

2. Talk to sexually active friends. Many of your friends have probably engaged in sexual intercourse, and their experiences will probably help you to choose abstinence. More than likely, at least a couple of your friends have jumped into a sexual relationship before they were ready and now regret their decision.

3. Understand that you should wait to have sex until you have made a decision one way or another. Once you have sex, you might be tempted to continue the behavior even if you don't believe you're doing the right thing. Give it careful consideration, then make your decision.

4. Tell people that you are thinking about choosing abstinence. This works like an accountability system, and will solidify your commitment to avoiding sexual intercourse. Rather than keeping your thoughts to yourself, tell your parents or your best friend that you are considering this decision and ask for their input.

5. Avoid peer pressure. Your significant other or your friends might try to convince you that you should have sex, so be firm in your decision. If you find that someone in your life is applying too much pressure, you might need to make adjustments to your social circle. If you think that abstinence is the right way to go, peer pressure might make this decision difficult.

6. Evaluate your decision regularly. If you decide to choose abstinence but then put it out of your mind, your willpower will gradually fade. Every so often, remind yourself why you've decided to stay celibate so you can keep your commitment strong in your mind.

7. Maintain your privacy. No one has to know that you've chosen abstinence unless you want them to. If sex comes up in a conversation with friends, excuse yourself to use the restroom, or listen quietly to the conversation. If someone asks about your sexual history and you don't want to share, simply explain that your sex life is private.

Tips & Warnings

• Adults can choose abstinence just as easily as teenagers. Don't let your age convince you that you have to have sex.

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[BobbiK]

on 9/18/2008 GOOD! This is what I teach my children.