6 ways to determine if an open relationship is for you…
JET
BY JAZZ KEYES
At the peak of racial and social trauma in the world, one could argue that the last thing society should be concerned with is who or how many people a person decides to love. Yet, sex still stands to be one of the most taboo topics in our culture. Many will reject the idea that a person can love many, but for those who choose to live this lifestyle, their decision is supported by numerous benefits.
I would have purchased front row tickets to see the reactions on people’s faces as they watched world-renowned comedian, actress, and mother, Mo’Nique boast proudly about her open marriage. In a society that promotes monogamy and marriage, the boldness it takes to hold hands on a Christian-based television show and unapologetically declare that you have chosen a nontraditional arrangement should be praised.
As a proclaimed free spirit, I honor everyone’s right to choose a life and love of that is pleasing to them. I’ve both cheated and been cheated on. I’ve been in love, and still desired the conversation, affection, or time of other people. As a woman who has done all of these things, I wonder if Mo’Nique and her husband are valid in believing that it’s best to have an open relationship.
Polyamory is defined as the desire to have more than one intimate partner. I wonder if polyamorous relationships are a relief to all the difficulties that come with monogamous relationships, or would having more than one partner only complicate things on the home front?
While many will squirm at the idea of an open relationship, I think it’s worth examining. Those who practice a non-monogamous lifestyle would argue there are multiple benefits to open relationships including:
Strengthened Communication
At the core of a polyamorous relationship is the need for strong communication. Polyamorous relationships require constant open dialogue, truthfulness, and the consideration of your partner’s feelings. The constant exchange increases trust between partners, and the free flowing transparency gives permission for emotions to be addressed in a healthy way. Polyamory allows partners to openly express their attractions, desires, wishes and needs all in a way that minimizes unhealthy emotions like insecurity and jealously that is often present in more traditional unions.
You Stop Demanding Perfection in One Person
We’ve all heard of the 80/20 rule. It suggests that we will never get 100% of what we need from our partners. The friction occurs when we give more attention to the 20% we don’t receive. In monogamous relationships, you simply learn to appreciate what you do have, instead of focusing on the 20% you are not receiving. In poly relationships however, instead of going without a portion of what you need in order to experience complete satisfaction, you and your partner seek 100% satisfaction by connecting with more than one person.
It’s Not All about Sex
Most rush to judgment when it comes to polygamous relationships. Despite what the consensus may be, these relationships are less about sex and more about developing healthy, rich connections with people. Polyamorous relationships allow you the freedom to exchange energy and build healthy, empowering friendships with people who serve to connect you to your higher self. These connections may never lead to sexual intimacy. …