There are some people who seem completely cut out for monogamous relationships. And then there are those who know from the get-go it’s just not right for them. Some researchers even question whether our early ancestors were monogamous, or did they naturally take part in polyamorous relationships.
What is Polyamory?
Put simply, polyamorous relationships are intimate relationships involving more than two people. This can mean there are three or more equal partners in a romantic relationship and they may all be dating or even sharing the same home. Polyamorous relationships can also refer to two individuals who are openly involved with one or more people on the side.
As you can imagine, these relationships require honestly and a lot of navigation to ensure everyone is happy, healthy and respected.
Is Polyamory Right for You?
If you’ve always considered yourself open and adventurous, and you’ve never been keen on the idea of monogamy, then a polyamorous relationships may be perfect for you. But before you take that plunge, there are some things to consider to understand if it is in fact right for you:
Are you the jealous type?
Do you think you can really handle seeing your partner date and be intimate with other people? This is the most important, and often the most difficult, question to answer. Take a look at how you handled jealousy-inducing situations in the past to get an idea if you would realistically be able to handle a polyamorous relationship.
Are You BOTH Interested?
If you are currently in a relationship, are you and your partner both interested in exploring this lifestyle? If only one of you is really keen on the idea and the other is hesitant, it can potentially cause issues down the road.
What is Motivating You to Pursue This Lifestyle at This Time?
If you and your partner both feel a monogamous relationship isn’t meeting your needs for intimacy, and if you both want to see the other one happy, then this could be an indicator a polyamorous relationship may be the right avenue to pursue. Similarly, if you as an individual are looking for more love and intimacy in your life, this could indicate you are ready to take this next step.
For many, polyamorous relationships can be a missing piece of their life and happiness puzzle. Having the opportunity to love and connect with more than one person may be ideal for you and your partner. Just be sure to be open, honest, loving and respectful of everyone’s needs and feelings at all times, and your life can be significantly enhanced by these relationships.
If you or a loved one is interested in exploring counseling, please contact me today. I would be happy to speak with you about how I may help you.
