5 rules for an open relationship

“I’m like a bird, I only fly away..”. You are probably familiar with the Nelly Furtado song. We can be free like a bird, and still be in a steady relationship at the same time nowadays. Having an open relationship, or a polyamorous one, is getting more and more popular. But it remains a taboo in today’s society. If you consider opening up your relationship to others, we are happy to guide you with the following 5 tips to succeed. 

Rule 1: Honesty
Honesty goes a long way, they say, and well, they are right! If you are in an open relationship it means you share everything with your partner. Intimacy, thoughts and feelings, but at the same time you are allowed to have sex with other people. It is very important that you will remain honest to each other. Have clear rules about what you can and cannot do, and also: what information you will share (or won’t) with each other. 

Rule 2: Trust
If you know you are the jealous type, then this might not be something you should do. In an open relationship it’s about more than just looking at other people, you should trust your partner completely to always come back to you in the end.

Rule 3: Respect
Just like honesty and trust, respect is vital in any relationship, open or not.

Rule 4: Keep it safe
Rule number four: ALWAYS keep it safe. It’s okay to have unprotected sex with your partner, but when you don’t protect yourself when having sex with other people, you will not only risk your own health, but also your partners. You don’t want to end up with STDs.

Rule 5: Agree on the rules
What information will you share, or won’t share? Are you allowed to have sex with friends or acquaintances? Everybody has their own take on open relationships, so it is very important to be on the same page!

Examples you can agree on:

• Only one-night stands  
• Just flirting and kissing, no sex 
• Don’t stay the night

Clear rules can help prevent arguments, and it will keep your open relationship fun and exciting.