The stage of your relationship will determine how you approach open relationships with your partner. It may be easier if you are single and/or casually dating. If this is the case, you can bring up your ideal of nonmonogamy during the dating stage. The other person will be able to make a decision about whether or not they wish to continue the relationship or perhaps even find swingers now.
Things are more complicated if you are already in a committed relationship. You must first acknowledge the circumstances of your relationship. Also, consider whether you were expecting monogamy. If you have agreed to monogamy, your partner can expect you to be monogamous. However, not all people make that explicit. Monogamy is a part of many people’s social expectations regarding romantic relationships. Many people assume that monogamy will be a part of their relationship, without ever discussing it with their partner. Consider what has changed. Perhaps you have always been interested in non-monogamy but tried to keep monogamy because of social pressures or family expectations.
Open relationship discussions don’t have to be triggered by a new crush. It is best if they come while you are free from any attachments. You can have an open relationship as a part of your therapy or personal work. However, if you approach your partner about an opening relationship to pursue a crush or to be unfaithful, expect to go through difficult times in your primary relationship. You will feel hurt and betrayed by your partner and will have to work through that feeling before you open up your relationship. It is important to approach your relationship positively, not out of boredom or spite. It is a bad idea to open up your relationship in an attempt to repair it. Even if you think it works initially, it will only make things worse over time.
Benefits
Open relationships can have many benefits when they are treated with respect and consent from all parties. Many people associate sexual satisfaction with the first. We all desire novelty in sexuality and enjoy it. It’s a great way for you to fulfil your desire for new sexual experiences. Successful open relationships are built on communication skills, trust and clear expectations. It is easier to meet your partner’s needs when they are clear and honest with you, instead of making assumptions. Open relationships allow partners the freedom to share all of their cards and even join swingers clubs. Non-monogamous couples can also have open relationships that allow them to freely express their feelings and needs without fear. This allows them to share their extra-marital or crushes with their partner without fear, which leads to less emotional distress.
Potential Pitfalls
Open relationships can have their own problems, in addition to the ones already mentioned. Jealousy is the most common. Jealousy can quickly arise in those who were raised in monogamy environments. They learn to challenge this expectation and explore non-monogamy. However, jealousy can be rooted in feelings that you are not enough. This is because you believe your romantic partner should be everything for you. It’s much easier to manage jealousy when you stop believing that you are the only one who can fulfil all of your partner’s needs.
