An open relationship is not your usual casual dinner topic, but it doesn’t have to be a nightmare as well. I remember being friends with a couple who thought they could handle it. They thought they would be cool with it, but then jealousy crashed the party. Another pair found out that sharing isn’t always caring. As you can guess, things got awkward fast.
But hey, don’t freak out! As Mae West once said, “You only live once, but if you do it right, once is enough.” If you’re still with me, I can tell you want to go beyond your current love life.
Maybe you’re not sure how to ask for an open relationship. Or perhaps you’re wondering how to ask the right open relationship questions so that you and your partner are on the same page. Maybe even checking out live sex websites together can be a fun way to start the conversation. Better yet, let’s turn these maybes into a real game plan—keep reading!
What You Mean by Open Relationship?!
Open relationships get a bad rap often. Some folks hear the term and immediately think it’s just a fancy term for cheating. Not true!
There’s no sneaking around here, no secrets. Everyone should have the freedom to try out new experiences while still being in a relationship, and it is just another one of them. Sure, it can be confusing at first, but it’s not as outrageous as one might think.
We’re Not Living In The 50s Anymore, Are We?
Back in the 1950s, relationships had a pretty strict script. You met someone, got married, and that was that. Open relationships? No way. It wasn’t even a conversation. If you were brave enough to bring up open relationship to the conversation, it would usually result in breaking up.
As you may have noticed, we’re not in the 50s anymore. These days, contemplating an open relationship now doesn’t mean you’re thinking about going rogue. It’s just another way people are exploring love.
So, when thinking about how to ask your partner for an open relationship, it’s good to remind oneself that we’re not stuck in the old black-and-white TV shows. You can actually have a chat about it without the world ending. Your relationship—your rules!
Myths About Open Relationships
There’s this widely shared idea that such relationships are created just to get casual sex without taking responsibility. But that’s like saying all cats are lazy—maybe yours is, but that doesn’t mean all of them are!
Here are a couple of other myths that I heard from people:
- Jealousy is unmanageable. Some assume open relationships are jealousy-fests, but honestly, jealousy pops up everywhere, even in monogamous relationships. The difference is that people in open relationships often have more honest conversations about it.
- They lack commitment. Actually, they often demand more trust and honesty than monogamous ones.
- They fix relationship problems. If the foundation is shaky, adding more people to the mix will not help.
- Polyamory and open relationships are the same: Not even close! Polyamory is about multiple romantic relationships, while open relationships can just be about sex without extra romantic ties.
So think twice the next time you hear these myths. Open relationships aren’t one-size-fits-all, and thinking so will only lead to disappointment.
The Bright Side of Wanting an Open Relationship
So, you’ve been considering how to suggest an open relationship. What are the upsides? For one, it can add a spark to your current situation. When you talk to your partner about an open relationship, you open the door to honest conversations about desires and boundaries, which can build trust and deepen your connection.
An open relationship can offer personal growth. You can gain insights into what you need and want from your relationship.
New people and fresh experiences can be a lot of fun as well! So, while it might seem tricky at first, you will encounter plenty of positives to being more open in a relationship.
Challenges of Opening Up a Relationship (and Smart Ways to Handle Them)
Let’s face it—proposing an open relationship isn’t always easy. There are challenges, like dealing with jealousy. Those feelings can still creep in even if you think you’re cool with it. The best way to manage this? Communication. Be open and honest with your partner about how you’re feeling.
Another challenge is the fear of rejection. It’s nerve-wracking to talk to your partner about an open relationship, especially if you’re unsure of their reaction. But it’s better to be upfront and know where you both stand.
Then there’s the practical side—managing your time and energy. Juggling more than one relationship can be tough. Your main relationship will get the attention it needs when you do regular check-ins with your partner.
What Will People Think? Talk About Open Relationship Without Shame!
Yeah, let’s address the elephant in the room. Even if you reach a shared view on how to go about your relationship, you will stumble sooner or later on what others think. Some people might not get it, and that’s okay. Don’t forget that this is your relationship and not theirs. You don’t owe anyone a detailed explanation. If someone asks, you can simply say that you’re doing what makes you and your partner happy. Who cares what they think?
Trying out something different doesn’t make you weird or wrong. The idea of open relationships is becoming more accepted, and people are more open to different relationship styles. So, if you’re concerned about judgment, focus on your happiness and surround yourself with supportive people.
Parting Thoughts on Keeping It Open
So, you’ve decided to propose an open relationship. What’s next? Keep the conversation going. Discuss feelings regularly, set boundaries, and respect each other’s perspectives.
It’s okay to reevaluate your arrangement. Things can change, and that’s normal. If something isn’t working, talk about it and make adjustments. The main goal is to establish a relationship setup that works for both of you and brings happiness.
All in all, I’d advise you to be more open in a relationship in all aspects. You’ll be surprised how much it will benefit both you and your partner!
