Open relationships are becoming increasingly popular in modern society. This type of relationship allows you to have multiple partners and explore different avenues of intimacy while still being committed to your significant other.

However, it takes a lot of commitment, communication, and trust to ensure that your open relationship is successful.

1. Establish Boundaries

The most important aspect of an open relationship is establishing clear boundaries. You and your partner need to have an open and honest conversation about what is and isn’t acceptable outside of your primary relationship. Consider questions like:.

Will you be permitted to go on dates and have romantic relationships outside of your primary relationship?
What level of physical intimacy is acceptable outside of your primary relationship?
Will you tell your partner before or after engaging in physical intimacy with another person?
Are there certain people or types of people that are off-limits?

Once you’ve established these boundaries, it’s important to revisit them regularly to ensure they are still working for both of you.

2. Communicate Openly and Honestly

Communication is key in any relationship, but it’s especially important in an open relationship. You need to be able to talk to your partner about your feelings, needs, and concerns without fear of judgment or retaliation.

This means sharing your emotions honestly and hearing your partner’s feelings respectfully.

If you feel hurt or jealous, let your partner know. Don’t try to suppress those feelings, as they will only fester and grow into resentment.

Open, honest communication can help you work through any issues that arise in your open relationship and strengthen your bond.

3. Practice Safe Sex

In an open relationship, you are potentially exposing yourself and your partner to new sexual partners. This means it’s crucial to practice safe sex to protect yourself and your partner.

Use condoms and dental dams, get tested regularly for STIs, and be upfront with new partners about your expectations for sexual safety.

4. Be Respectful of Your Partner’s Feelings

Just because you’re in an open relationship doesn’t mean your partner’s feelings don’t matter. You both need to be sensitive to each other’s emotions and be mindful of each other’s boundaries.

If your partner expresses discomfort with a certain aspect of your open relationship, take their feelings seriously and work to find a solution that works for both of you.

5. Schedule Quality Time Together

It’s important to remember that your open relationship is not a substitute for quality time with your primary partner. Make sure you’re still carving out time for romantic dates, cuddling, and shared activities that strengthen your bond.

Don’t let outside partners take away from the intimacy and connection you share with your primary partner.

6. Be Prepared for Jealousy

Jealousy is a natural emotion that can arise in any type of relationship, including open relationships. You and your partner need to be prepared to handle jealousy when it arises, whether it’s coming from you or them.

If you or your partner experiences jealousy, don’t resort to blame or anger. Instead, take time to talk through your emotions and come up with solutions together.

Remember that jealousy does not necessarily mean the end of your open relationship – it’s simply a hurdle that can be overcome with effort and understanding.

7. Be Honest with New Partners

If you are pursuing relationships with other people outside of your primary relationship, it’s important to be honest and upfront with them about your situation.

Let them know that you are in an open relationship, what your boundaries are, and what your expectations are for your relationship with them.

Being transparent with new partners can help ensure that everyone is on the same page and that there is less potential for hurt feelings or misunderstandings down the line.

8. Consider the Benefits of an Open Relationship

An open relationship can bring many benefits, including an increased sense of freedom and personal growth, the opportunity to explore intimacy with multiple partners, and a deepened level of trust with your primary partner.

Reflect on what drew you to the idea of an open relationship and how it has enriched your life. This can help you stay motivated to put in the work to make your open relationship a success.

9. Remember Why You Chose Each Other

At the end of the day, the success of your open relationship comes down to the strength of your connection with your primary partner. Take time to remember why you chose each other in the first place and what you love about your relationship.

Use that love as a foundation for building a fulfilling, satisfying open relationship together.