Understanding Your Sexuality

Sexuality is about who you’re attracted to — emotionally, romantically, and/or physically. It’s as personal as your taste in music, and like playlists, it can change over time.

The Basics

Sexuality is often described in terms of sexual orientation — who you’re drawn to. Some common terms:

• Heterosexual – attraction to a different gender.

• Homosexual – attraction to the same gender.

• Bisexual – attraction to more than one gender.

• Pansexual – attraction regardless of gender.

• Asexual – little or no sexual attraction to others.

But here’s the truth: labels can be helpful for some people and stressful for others. You don’t have to “pick one” right now, or ever. You can explore and learn about yourself at your own pace.

Why It Matters

Knowing your sexuality helps you understand your feelings, set boundaries, and form relationships that make you happy and safe. It also gives you words to express yourself — but only if you want to use them. There’s no deadline, no quiz, and no “right” answer.

Myths, Busted

• Myth: You can choose your sexuality.
  Fact: You can’t force attraction — it’s simply part of who you are.

• Myth: You must have sexual experience to know your sexuality.
  Fact: Attraction doesn’t require action.

Navigating the Journey

Imagine walking into a huge buffet. You might know your favorite dishes right away, or you might sample and discover new ones. Sexuality works similarly — your experiences, feelings, and understanding of yourself can shift over time, and that’s normal.

If you feel different from friends or from what you see in movies, remember: representation in media is still catching up to reality. There’s a whole spectrum of human attraction that doesn’t always make it onto TV shows.

Tips

1. Take your time — there’s no rush.

2. Surround yourself with people who respect your identity.

3. Learn about the LGBTQ+ community if you’re curious.

4. Don’t compare your timeline to anyone else’s.

Final Word

Your sexuality is like your personal playlist — unique, evolving, and nobody else’s business unless you want to share it. Trust yourself, stay curious, and give yourself the freedom to grow.