10 Reasons Why You Should Consider Opening Up Your Relationship
Has it ever happened to you that you’ve felt something was missing in your relationship? Maybe you’re perfectly happy with your partner, but a part of you wonders what exploring new connections, experiences, or desires would be like. Don’t worry: you are not alone. Probably 100% of people who have ever been in a monogamous, harmonious and loving relationship have these thoughts about whether they are worth giving up for that beautiful freedom of exploration. Are we right to sacrifice our happiness for the sake of fidelity and monogamy? The Flure team suggests you consider other options to understand — once and for all — which relationship structure makes everybody happy.
In modern love, people often suffer from a loneliness pandemic, the paradox of choice, and the constant insecurity of being single in a precarious world that’s always on the edge of another healthcare/economic/political crisis. We enter the dating scene overwhelmed by unrealistic expectations and social pressure, making it difficult to answer the question, “What are you looking for?” In the end, many people end up spinning in a vicious circle of loneliness and broken relationships just because they cannot find “the one” among the millions of people. So, if you’ve ever found yourself curious about what lies beyond the boundaries of monogamy, you’re not alone.
People consider opening their relationships for various reasons, ranging from a desire for greater personal freedom to a need for deeper emotional connections. For some, it’s about exploring their sexuality or discovering new aspects of themselves that they can’t fully express within the confines of a monogamous relationship. Others may feel that their current partnership is strong but could benefit from the excitement and novelty of meeting new people. In many cases, opening a relationship is driven by a mutual desire to grow together, to expand what love and commitment mean, and to embrace a more fluid, dynamic approach to partnership.
While transitioning to an open or polyamorous relationship can be a transformative experience, it can hardly be a better alternative to a breakup. If your partner doesn’t satisfy you, it’s unlikely they will once you introduce someone else to your bond. This is why opening up is a natural but very delicate process. So, where do you start? Our suggestion: consider the reasons why you should even think about doing it in the first place.
- Understanding the root issues
What are the reasons why you consider going poly? If the desire to open the relationship stems from unmet needs (e.g., sexual variety, emotional connections), and the core relationship is strong, opening up might be a viable alternative. - Mutual desire and agreement
For an open relationship to work, it’s vital to dive into candid conversations about boundaries, expectations, and feelings. By laying everything on the table, you create a secure space for both partners. It shouldn’t be a compromise or a last-ditch effort to save the relationship. If one partner is reluctant or feels pressured, opening the relationship can lead to further complications and heartache. - Long-term compatibility
It’s important not to use an open relationship as a ‘Band-Aid’ to avoid difficult conversations or decisions. If the relationship is struggling, it’s essential to work on these issues directly. On the other hand, if your life goals and values match, going poly can be a healthy and rational solution. - Exploring new emotional connections
Opening your relationship can allow you to connect with new people on a deep emotional level. These new connections can bring fresh perspectives and enrich your life in ways you may not have anticipated. - Fulfilling diverse needs
It’s unfair to expect that one person can and will fulfill all your emotional, intellectual, and physical needs. An open relationship allows you to seek out different partners who can meet various aspects of your personality and desires, creating a more holistic sense of fulfillment. - Reducing pressure on your primary relationship
In monogamous relationships, there’s often pressure to be everything to your partner — best friend, lover, confidante, etc. Opening your relationship can alleviate some of this pressure, allowing each partner to explore and fulfill needs without feeling overwhelmed. - Promoting independence and autonomy
An open relationship can foster a sense of independence and autonomy for both partners. Each person has the freedom to explore new experiences and relationships while maintaining a strong bond with their primary partner. - Increasing sexual variety
For many, one of the most appealing aspects of an open relationship is the opportunity to explore sexual connections with others. This can rekindle passion, keep things exciting, and allow exploring desires and fantasies that cannot be fulfilled within one primary relationship. - Challenging social norms
Choosing an open relationship can be a way to challenge societal norms and expectations about love, sex, and relationships. It also can be an empowering way to live authentically and on your own terms rather than conforming to traditional relationship structures. - Creating a community
Polyamory and open relationships often come with a built-in community of like-minded individuals who share similar values and experiences. This can create a support network where you can share advice, learn from others, and build lasting friendships.
Final thoughts
Opening your relationship is a significant decision that requires careful thought, communication, and mutual agreement. It’s not a one-size-fits-all solution, but for many couples, it can lead to profound personal growth, stronger relationships, and a richer, more fulfilling life. If you and your partner are curious about what an open relationship could offer, consider having an open, honest discussion about your desires and boundaries. With mutual respect and clear communication, opening your relationship could be the next step in your journey together. And if you are positive that you want to try it, join Flure: the perfect app to explore polyamory and find like-minded people. Embrace the adventure!
