Modern relationships no longer have to conform to the status quo as couples navigate their own romantic path. Traditional partnerships, open marriages and hookups are still popular, but for some couples, there’s another option: monogamish relationships.
Still a relatively new concept, monogamish relationships are starting to become more widespread. But what exactly is a monogamish relationship? And how might it look from the inside? Here’s a closer look at everything you need to know.
What is Monogamish?
There is no precise definition of monogamish as it varies from one couple to another. The closest approximation is a midway step between monogamy and an open relationship, but the exact boundaries are very personal.
As the name suggests, monogamish relationships have their roots in monogamy, so there’s no free license to play away as often as you want. Both parties in a monogamish relationship are faithful to each other, but also have the flexible to enjoy intimacy elsewhere, providing it doesn’t breach the agreed rules.
And these rules are vital to a successful monogamish relationship. Clear communication is key so there are no misunderstandings about what’s in and out of scope. What works for one couple would be disaster for another so feel free to make the boundaries as tight or as lax as you like.
Benefits of Being Monogamish
A monogamish agreement gives you the best of both worlds: flexibility without relinquishing the security of a committed relationship. You can enjoy having a long-term partner, while still having the freedom for some fun on the side.
If you’re drawn to the idea of an open relationship, being monogamish is a good first step. It provides the opportunity to experiment with more freedom, without plunging in at the deep end.
Monogamish relationships aren’t just for those who want to enjoy some solo fun; they’re also great for introducing a third person into the bedroom. Monogamish couples are common on these threesome hookup sites, which is helpful as it means everyone understands how it works. And choosing a good site is simply a matter of reading a decent review page to know all the pros and cons of each hookup page.
You can use a monogamish relationship either as a stepping stone to a fully open relationship, or it can be a final destination. You can also redefine the boundaries of what monogamish means to you if you find the current agreement just isn’t working out. Whatever you choose, a monogamish relationship provides the opportunity for everything to always stay fresh, and prevents partners from taking each other for granted.
You may even find that you have a closer bond with your partner because of being monogamish. Having regular check-ins about the health of your relationship, and communicating frequently can be extremely beneficial all-round.
How to Establish Ground Rules
The ambiguity around the definition of monogamish relationships means that it’s essential that you have clear communication with your partner. Establishing ground rules allows you to customize your relationship to include boundaries that feel acceptable.
You will need to consider physical and emotional boundaries. For example, what level of physical intimacy is acceptable? How many times is it permitted to contact the same person? Is welcoming the third person your thing? You might also want to discuss what kinds of activities are within the rules, and the content of any communication.
Above all else, monogamish relationships are about respecting the existing bond and not seeking to deceive or do something that’s not consensual.
Regular discussions about the relationship are important, and you’ll need to revisit what has previously been agreed. Boundaries and feelings may change so you’ll need to communicate with your partner regularly about what’s going on.
Mistakes That Can Ruin Everything
Trust and openness are integral to making a monogamish relationship work. If you’re sneaking around behind your partner’s back, it will eventually destroy the basis of your agreement.
Any degree of monogamish boundaries have to be completely consensual. If one partner is reluctant, the arrangement is bound to fail. Not everyone feels uncomfortable with opening up a relationship to other people, and if that’s the case, a monogamish structure isn’t the solution.
Even if both parties enter into the arrangement enthusiastically, feelings can change. Regular, honest conversations are needed to make sure that both partners are happy to continue, and that the boundaries don’t need to be changed. Failing to communicate is one of the biggest mistakes that you can make, and can lead to jealousy, insecurity, and mistrust.
Could a Monogamish Relationship Work for You?
Due to the stigma that still surrounds non-traditional relationships, couples often keep the nature of their monogamish relationship secret. Your family and friends could be monogamish, and you would never know. It’s clear that monogamish relationships won’t work for everyone, and both parties have to agree without reluctance to stand a chance of success. However, if you prefer more flexibility in your romantic relationships, a monogamish agreement could be what you need, and you’d be part of the growing trend of individuals who feel the same way.
