10 Times "Hey Arnold!" Taught Us The Facts About Love

Who would have guessed a show about fourth-graders could yield such spot-on advice about grown-up relationships? The sweetest gift to give this season is Nickelodeon Hey Arnold! Guide to Relationships.

1. If they're just not that into you, don't obsess over it.

Remember this: You might be the fudgiest Mister Fudgie bar in the whole Jolly Olly truck, but there will still be people out there who just don't like Mister Fudgies. Focus your energy on those who like you for who you are, not what you might be.

2. Have a wingperson.

Having a trusty BFF with you on single nights out can help you relax and be yourself, which is key to attracting the right people! Just don't let the cutie you have an eye on catch you guys doing the wiggly thumb thing when you get their number.

3. Remember that you learn something from every breakup.

Breakups are painful. End of story. However, they can also help you discover what you really want in a relationship and realize that sometimes, you can end up loving someone who just isn't right for you. In Olga's case, she dodged a major bullet by getting dumped!

4. Tell them how you really feel.

You'll never know how things might have been if you don't tell others how you feel, and life is way too short for that! The worst that could happen is they don't reciprocate, but if you avoid building your self-esteem based on how a select few feel about you romantically, you'll be more than OK.

5. Don't worry about what people will say.

The only thing that should matter at the end of the day in a relationship is that the people in it are happy and healthy in love...and how that looks is different for every couple. Follow your heart, no matter what people say!

6. Romance requires effort.

True romance boils down to effort and thoughtfulness. So whether it's treating your long-term partner to a lavish dinner at their favorite restaurant or simply writing them a heartfelt letter about why you love them, romance truly is the key to making the magic last. (Take note, Big Bob.)

7. Just because they were your first love doesn't mean they're your true love.

Helga may think Arnold is her one true love because he was the first boy she ever loved, but it's not just 9-year-olds who overly romanticize their first loves. Your first will always have a special place in your heart, but try not to compare those who come after — welcome the power of evolving.

8. You can learn to trust again.

Like Pigeon Man, it can be difficult to let others into your life after you've been burned, especially in a relationship. You can be loved and accepted exactly as you are, but you won't fully understand it until you're ready to trust again.

9. Work on your self-image.

Before you can find yourself receiving the love and admiration of someone else, you need to feel it for yourself first! Working on seeing all of your awesome traits, uniquely beautiful features, and lovable quirks is a must before someone else can.

10. And remember that relationships take work in order to last.

A long-term, committed relationship can be incredibly rewarding, but it will not always come easy, especially without great communication and compromise. As long as both of you want it to work and are willing to put in the effort, you will find a way through the rough times and end up loving your pookie even more.

Images courtesy of DK

Give the gift of timeless advice and a burst of Nick nostalgia with DK's Nickelodeon Hey Arnold! Guide to Relationships by Stacy Grant.

DK Publishing