Next step???

You've been in a relationship for 6 years but you're 19, how tumultuous were those teenage dating years? You may not fully understand this because its just through the internet and there is kindness in my inflection, anyway can you really count all six of those years as a mature relationship? Your mindset has changed and matured since the start of your relationship so stay with me here because we all know theres testing waters as kids and theres dealing with emotional hardships and then when youre looking at the life partner you need to also think about how youve dealt with hardships because typically at 19 you havent had to pay bills, feed and clothe kids who are dependent on you and struggle and while they dont happen immediately if you're thinking about the next step you need to think about how have you seen them and yourself react to the struggles you have had and are you ready to take on more struggles together or do you need to grow more as people before you try another step forward.

I feel like a lot of “next steps” come somewhat naturally so if you’re not sure if or what you’re ready for, there’s nothing wrong with just enjoying your current stage until it becomes more clear. Idk if one or both of you are in college but a lot of times I’ve seen that cause people to hold off on next steps, like living together bc you live on campus or getting engaged bc you don’t want to plan a wedding while you’re in school. Sometimes financial instability plays a part at this age. It’s hard to speculate without knowing the whole picture. But as for your last comment, I know many many grown adults that are still boyfriend and girlfriend. Some are in early stages and some have been together for years, live together, have kids, bank together, etc. and are still using those terms. So I wouldn’t worry about it being “too kiddy”. That’s what he is to you at this point. And you’re still young at 19. No matter what, I’d say have a talk with your boyfriend. See what he thinks about where you are in your relationship now and what he thinks is next. Express your opinion. Try not to rush it. It can be hard/different navigating a relationship from kids/teenagers to adults.

I know it will be hard but sit down and talk to him about your relationship. You are young but if you both have been mature in your relationship this whole time, then it is time to look to your future. If he seems nervous, let him know you are too. Or if the conversation starts to get heated (argument wise) take a break. Talk to your parents or trusted older adult (preferably happily married) for advice.