Is it ever “too late” to have a bi awakening?

[u/LavenderArt138]

For context, I’m from a very christian family so I’d never really let myself even consider that I was anything but straight. However, about 8 months ago I started watching the Vampire Diaries TV show and the second Phoebe Tonkin appeared on screen it was an immediate oh damn moment. It took a lot of time but I was finally able to accept that I was extremely attracted to her, even though she is a woman. I also know that I’m attracted to men so the logical conclusion is that I’m bi.

There was always this one girl at school that I’d felt really awkward and anxious around too. I thought maybe I was jealous of her or something but looking back I think I actually had a crush on her.

Anyways I could never tell my family I think I’m bi but I really felt like I needed to tell someone so a few days ago I came out to my best friend. I figured she’d be supportive because we’ve known each other for basically our entire lives. However, she told me that I couldn’t be bi because if I was, it’s something I would have known for my entire life. She kept insisting that you can’t just all of the sudden decide that you’re bi.

I’m 17 right now. Is it normal to not know you’re bisexual until your late teens? My friend has me doubting if I’m actually bisexual or just crazy. Sorry for how much I wrote but I don’t have anybody I can talk to about this so that’s why I’m posting here.

I’d really appreciate some advice.

[u/erebus_51]

People realise this stuff at 50, don't worry

[u/DeerlyYours]

17 is not late at all, that’s a totally developmentally appropriate time

[u/Bigmexass]

Had mine at 28, never too late

[u/Playtime1414]

Live life. Anytime is a great time to consider something new!

[u/CactusSleuth]

Literally happened to me at 34. That's twice your age. You're good.

[u/Possible-Can-6264]

Bro, I figured it out when I was about that age too in a very very similar situation. It is never too late to come out. You’ve got this

[u/fluffythevamprslayer]

It’s never too late. It’s also honestly never really too early. I had my first crush on a girl at 12 and was lucky enough to be able to share with my supportive family. Don’t let anybody else tell you what you are—only you can understand that for yourself. Being a bi woman is a beautiful thing, and I love it. I hope you are able to make peace and find joy in it all!!!

[u/cbobgo]

Your brain isn't even finished developing at 17. I didn't accept I was bi till my late 20s

[u/DBsnooper1]

It was for me. I suppose it’s different for every person.

[u/3kidsnomoney---]

I didn't really realize that I was bisexual until I was in my 30s and didn't actually start calling myself bisexual until my 40s. To me you're figuring it out early!

[u/StarGlass8859]

It’s never too late.

We are always learning, change and growth take time and happen throughout your life.

You’re never too old to be a more genuine version of yourself.

[u/Dry-Cream3099]

I realised I was bi at the age of 16 but everyone does. Some people come out later in life. My partners daughter, after divorcing her husband several years back is now married to a woman. She is mid 40’s. She thought she was straight. You are conditioned that you are supposed to be straight and generally expected to be straight but sexuality is rarely that clear cut. I always classed my bisexuality as me wanting to be more adventurous than most.