The idea of an open relationship sends most people running out the door, but it's actually a possible setup if you're the kind of person who's afraid of commitment. "Having an open relationship can work really well for some people," says David Barash, Ph.D., professor of psychology at the University of Washington and co-author of The Myth of Monogamy.
Of course, you still have to be careful when you decide to be in an open relationship since technically, you and the guy you're dating aren't exclusively together. "As people, we're also inclined to be sexually jealous of a partner being with someone else, and from a biological standpoint, we're resistant to that partner having another relationship," he adds.
But that shouldn't stop you from trying something new, right? Especially if you're not really seeing anyone you're 100% sure about. As long as you re careful and keep your emotions in place, everything will work out just fine. Still in doubt? Here are some of the benefits you can enjoy in an open relationship:
You'll meet a lot of interesting people...
...because you'll be free to date around! Plus, you won't have to deal with a jealous guy because you two are in an NSA (no strings attached) kind of relationship.
Two words: No stress.
Sometimes, women stress over the men they're seeing, and in an open relationship, you know your boundaries from the start, which means having zero expectations and hopefully, zero disappointments. #NoDrama
You're free to do anything you want.
You can travel all you want and wear whatever you like, because you have all the free time to do things that make you happy and content with yourself. The guy you are openly dating, can just be a bonus. *wink*
You have no problems with school-life balance...
...because you manage your own time on your own terms—and you have enough time to build a career, have fun with your friends, and date around.
You won't feel tied down.
There's no pressure to get all serious soon. When you're in an open relationship, it's not expected that you two settle down; it's just a way to know your options and have fun while doing so.
It can keep you on your toes!
Healthy competition is not a bad thing. And knowing that you could potentially lose someone who satisfies your needs may also help you realize that anyone is replaceable and that is motivation enough to upgrade yourself into a better person, not for a man, but for yourself.
This story originally appeared on Femalenetwork.com.
* Minor edits have been made by the Candymag.com editors.
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