Is Ethical Non-Monogamy Worth Exploring?

This week, we are furthering our discussion around ethical non-monogamy (ENM), and outlining some signs ENM may or may not be worth exploring for you.

Some reasons a non-monogamous relationship may be worth exploring for you: 

• You’re genuinely interested in non-monogamy

• You’re ready to put in the work of building and maintaining multiple relationships (if you choose this style of ENM).

• You’re in a relationship with mismatched libidos, desires or mixed sexual orientations, and there is willingness to have conversation about what ENM could look like for you.

These signs are only starting points for your ENM journey. The only person who can decide if exploring non-monogamy feels right, is you!

We can get caught up in the excitement and shininess of new relationships and experiences, so it is important to consider the intention behind exploring ENM. 

Opening a relationship will not solve the issues within your current relationship. Opening a relationship that has existing issues will likely only magnify them! ENM won’t prevent cheating or heartbreak, and it is unlikely to be successful if it comes from a place of people-pleasing or manipulation, rather than genuine interest, trust and willingness. Opening a relationship needs to come from a strong foundation of honesty, trust and communication. It’s also important to consider how much time you’d have available for additional people, in what capacity, and ensure that you are considering your current relational and personal needs. 

It’s also a worthwhile reminder that exploring ENM is not a fixed or permanent decision, and neither are the agreements you make within your relationship. 

It may be daunting admitting to yourself and/or your partner(s) that your needs aren’t being met, or that you want to explore ENM in some way, and a supportive friend or therapist who can help you identify and even practice this may be useful. If you want to explore ENM, opening a conversation in a supportive environment is the first step, and can be exciting and freeing!

If you are interested in learning more about ENM, or exploring it individually or with other(s), but don’t know how, reach out to GVC to schedule a session!