These are some important things to keep in mind as you navigate (or consider) an open relationship.
It’s not enough to say, “Let’s have an open relationship.” A successful open relationship requires clear, communicated boundaries.
Regularly check in with your partner
On that note, it’s good to have check-ins with your partner. “What you thought you might like in theory may not actually be something you do like in reality, or vice versa,” says Consul.
This is a new experience, and it will take time to get it right. “Be willing to learn and grow together,” says Boodram. “Just because an open relationship may look one way on TV or social media.
Safe sex and what that means to you is something to discuss before entering an open relationship. Protection and regular testing are key to keeping everyone safe and informed, says Boodram.
Take your time dipping your toe into the pool of open relationships as you decide what you and your partner want.
Think opening your relationship means there’s something wrong with it
According to Boodram, this might cause you to think, “If I say yes to being in an open relationship, am I also admitting that we aren’t enough for each other?”
The conversation about non-monogamy doesn’t end just because you and your partner decided to be in an open relationship.
No matter how much you want to be in an open relationship, jealousy can still creep up. It’s a normal reaction to knowing the person you care about is with someone else.
An open relationship is not destined or more likely to fail by any means. Instead, open relationships may break down when seen as a safety rope for their relationship versus actually wanting to be in one.