The article is developed in partnership with BetterHelp.
When you are dating, there are many issues that you may worry about. However, one that you should not have to be concerned about is monogamy. For some relationships, a couple may choose to be exclusive, and in others, this may not be the case. Keep reading for a look at how to know if you want to be monogamous when dating.
Monogamy
In a monogamous relationship, there are two people that are committed to each other and choose to be exclusive with one another. They may have a long-term relationship, or get married, depending on what they wish to do.
While monogamy is generally defined as having one sexual partner or mate, this is an ideal that doesn’t work for all relationships. In some instances, a couple may decide that they have an open relationship or want to add other people into the equation. This is what is known as non-monogamy.
For more facts about monogamy, visit BetterHelp. There are articles that explain this topic further.
How to Know if You Want to be Monogamous
There are a few things to consider when you are determining if you would like to engage in a monogamous relationship or would like something more.
Talk to Your Partner
The first step in deciding what type of relationship you want to have is to talk to your partner. You can discuss your relationship, how many you have been in, and what you would like out of a future mate. You should also tell them how you feel about them.
Determine Your Expectations
You should think about your needs, wants, and expectations in your relationship. Let them be known to your partner. Additionally, you should ask them what they want and expect out of your pairing.
Once you know what the other person wants, this can help you determine if you will be able to provide these things for them, and how to go about it. Also, should have the ability to decide if they are the individual that you would like to have a relationship with long-term.
When you are open and honest with your partner, no matter what you decide your expectations are, this can lead to both of you being able to get what you want. Even in the case that one of you would like to be non-monogamous, this step is important.
Consider the Future
Take the time to consider what your relationship will look like in the future. If your partner makes you happy and you can see yourself getting married and starting a family, there’s a good chance that you want to be monogamous with them.
However, if you are satisfied with them but you also feel that you need something more, you must be truthful about this. You can decide together if this is feasible for your relationship. In some cases, your mate may be okay with a relationship of this type, and in other circumstances, you might not be right for one another.
Work with a Therapist
There are many ways to enter into a non-monogamous relationship where everyone can have their needs met. If you want to get expert advice on this type of relationship, you can work with a therapist for further guidance. They may have the ability to help you decide what you want to say to your mate and how to approach the situation.
Also, if you feel like you want to be monogamous but the idea of it makes you uncomfortable, you can talk about this topic with a therapist as well. They might be able to help you understand why you feel this way and change it if you wish to.
Conclusion
Whether or not you want to be in a monogamous relationship is something that you have to decide for yourself. While many of the people you know may be in one, this isn’t the only type of relationship that there is. You can read more articles online about non-monogamy or speak with a therapist for more guidance.
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