What Is an Open Relationship? 15 Open Relationship Rules Insight from Relationship Expert 

Thinking about an open relationship but not sure how to make it work? You’re not the only one. There are some open relationship rules you need to know. Open relationships can be fulfilling, but they require clear communication and boundaries.

In this guide, we’ll explore the rules for having a healthy open relationship. We’ll share insights from relationship experts to help you set up effective communication, handle jealousy, and ensure emotional safety.

So let’s get started.

An open relationship, also known as consensual non-monogamy (CNM), is a committed partnership where both partners agree to have romantic or sexual relationships outside the primary relationship. It’s crucial to differentiate this from cheating, as everyone involved has given their consent. Open relationships thrive on clear communication and boundaries. Partners discuss their expectations for outside involvement, ensuring emotional safety and managing jealousy. This type of relationship isn’t for everyone, but with honest communication and trust, it can be a fulfilling way to explore intimacy.

The health of an open relationship depends entirely on how it’s managed. Just like monogamous relationships, open ones require strong communication, trust, and clear boundaries. Research suggests that with these elements in place, open relationships can be just as successful and happy as monogamous ones [studies on open relationships].

However, there are additional challenges specific to open relationships. Jealousy is a common hurdle, and navigating the emotional complexities of outside partners requires open communication and a strong foundation in the primary relationship. If you’re considering an open relationship, it’s important to be honest with yourself and your partner about your expectations and ability to handle these challenges.

15 Open Relationship Rules To Make It Work

These 15 open relationship rules are divided into; Things that are allowed in an open relationship, things to avoid in an open relationship and how to be okay in an open relationship.

What is allowed in an open relationship?

1. Romantic and/or Sexual Involvement with Others

The core aspect of open relationships is the freedom for partners to pursue romantic or sexual connections outside the primary relationship. This can range from casual encounters to more emotionally intimate connections, depending on the couple’s agreements.

2. Open Communication

Unrestricted and honest communication is essential. Partners discuss their desires, boundaries, and expectations for outside involvement. This includes discussing the types of encounters allowed (emotional vs. casual), frequency, and how they’ll communicate about their outside experiences.

3. Emotional Safety and Boundaries

While open relationships allow for outside exploration, emotional safety within the primary relationship remains paramount. Partners establish clear boundaries around what kind of emotional intimacy is acceptable with outside partners. This helps prevent jealousy and protects the core bond.

4. No Insecurities

In an open relationship insecurities because there is an environment of open communication about desires and boundaries. This honesty reduces the pressure of cheating. Thus potentially alleviating anxieties about not fulfilling all your partner’s needs and boosting self-worth, leading to a sense of security within the relationship.

5. Less pressure and anxiety

There is no or less tension and anxiety around exclusivity and fulfilling all your partner’s needs. By openly acknowledging desires for outside connections, couples can avoid the stress of hiding attractions or feeling pressured to be everything for their partner. This honesty allows them to focus what matters while exploring intimacy in other forms.

Here are 5 things to avoid in an open relationship:

6. Poor Communication

Open communication is the lifeblood of a healthy open relationship. Avoid secrecy, dishonesty, or withholding information about your outside experiences. Regularly discuss your feelings, boundaries, and any challenges you encounter.

7. Unrealistic Expectations

Don’t enter an open relationship expecting it to solve existing problems or fill a void in your primary relationship. Open relationships are not a magic fix and require effort to navigate. Be realistic about the emotional complexities involved.

8. Unchecked Jealousy

Jealousy is a natural human emotion, but it’s crucial to manage it constructively. Avoid letting jealousy cloud your judgment or lead to possessiveness. Communicate your feelings openly and work together to address the root of the jealousy.

9. Neglecting the Primary Relationship

While outside exploration can be exciting, don’t neglect your primary partner. Make time for quality time, intimacy, and nurturing your core bond. Open relationships require maintaining a strong foundation in the primary partnership.

10. Rushing In

Don’t jump into an open relationship impulsively. Take time to discuss expectations, boundaries, and potential challenges thoroughly. Ensure both partners are comfortable and fully informed before making this decision.

11. Prioritize Your Primary Relationship

An open relationship shouldn’t replace the core bond. Make time for quality dates, intimacy, and activities you both enjoy. Remember, a strong foundation in the primary relationship fosters security for outside exploration.

12. Be Honest with your

Open relationships demand self-reflection. Are you comfortable with emotional openness? Can you manage jealousy in a healthy way? Understanding your own needs and limitations is crucial for navigating this dynamic.

13. Set Clear Boundaries

Define what’s acceptable in your open relationship. Discuss the level of intimacy allowed with outside partners, the types of activities you’re comfortable with, and communication protocols regarding outside experiences.

14. Maintain Safe Sex Practices

Since open relationships involve more partners, prioritize safe sex. Always use condoms, get regular STI testing, and have open conversations about sexual health with all partners involved.

15. Never Assume a thing for your partner

In open relationships, assuming anything about your partner’s desires or comfort levels is a disaster. Hence,  this will prevent you from making decisions on behave of your partner. Eg. Are okay with a certain level of intimacy with another partner. Always check in, be transparent, and prioritize clear communication.

Drawbacks of Open Relationships

• Jealousy and insecurity
• Emotional complexity
• Time management issues
• Lack of societal understanding and acceptance
• Difficulty establishing boundaries

Going into the world of open relationships can be both exciting and daunting. By exploring these Open relationship rules insights from a relationship expert, you’ve gained valuable knowledge to navigate this it. Remember, open relationships thrive on clear communication, established boundaries, and a strong foundation of trust within the primary partnership. While not for everyone, open relationships can offer a fulfilling way to explore intimacy if approached with honesty, self-awareness, and a commitment to emotional safety. So, if you’re curious about this relationship style, use this knowledge as a springboard for open conversations with your partner and see if it is a journey you both can embark on together, one honest step at a time.

There’s no simple answer to whether open relationships last long. Just like monogamous partnerships, their success depends on the individuals involved and the effort they put into communication, trust, and boundary setting. Some studies suggest that with these elements in place, open relationships can be just as fulfilling and long-lasting as traditional ones.

However, open relationships present additional challenges. Jealousy is a common hurdle, and navigating the emotional complexities of outside partners requires a strong foundation in the primary relationship. Couples who are honest with themselves and each other about their expectations and ability to handle these challenges are more likely to find success in the long run.

No, open relationships and polyamory are related but distinct concepts within the umbrella term of ethical non-monogamy (ENM). Here’s the key difference:

• Open Relationships: Focus on sexual exploration outside the primary relationship. Couples might agree to casual encounters or short-term flings, with the emphasis remaining on the primary bond. Emotional connections with outside partners may or may not be allowed, depending on the couple’s agreement.

• Polyamory: Involves forming multiple committed emotional relationships at the same time, with the knowledge and consent of everyone involved. Polyamorous relationships can be romantic and/or sexual, and all partners are expected to be emotionally invested in these connections.

Think of it like this: Open relationships are like opening a single window to let in some fresh air, while polyamory is like building an entire open-air room to create more space for love.