With polyamory and open relationships gaining increased attention, it’s important to be clear about expectations. The structure of an open relationship can be a challenging concept for some to grasp, especially when it’s new. It’s not unusual for people who are new to this lifestyle to feel jealous when their partner is with someone else. It’s important to prioritize communication and self-awareness in order to avoid jealousy.
Jealousy is a normal part of the emotional spectrum and can be triggered by many things, including insecurity, fear of rejection, and previous experiences with monogamous relationships. These issues may be heightened in open relationships, as the partners must learn to communicate their needs and boundaries clearly, respect one another’s feelings and desires, and be mindful of each other’s schedules. It’s also helpful to find a support system of like minded individuals to help navigate these new situations.
Ultimately, the key to navigating jealousy in an open relationship is having a deep sense of empathy. The partners must understand that this is a normal part of the process and remind themselves why they decided to explore non-monogamy in the first place. Often, this involves growth, exploration, and a shared philosophy of love and commitment.
If you’re interested in learning more about navigating Emotions in Open Relationships, I encourage you to read our other articles, such as our tips on how to have a satisfying and healthy open relationship. You can also check out our podcast episode on the topic to hear more from myself and my co-host, Alysa! navigating Emotions in Open Relationships
